HIS books see people dealing with others in the worst kind of way, but that hasn't stopped Peter James' supporting healthier relationships.

The best-selling crime writer was on hand to cut the cake at the 21st birthday celebrations of the Brighton and Hove Independent Mediation Service (BHIMS), of which he is patron.

The charity aims to help neighbours, tenants, landlords, local businesses, care home residents and many others resolve their disputes.

The birthday celebrations held on Wednesday (November 25) at the charity's headquarters in Grove Hill, Brighton, was attended by more than 40 guests including the mayor of Brighton and Hove, Councillor Lynda Hyde.

An independent charity since 1994 BHIMS works in Brighton, Hove and Lewes area.

Its forty-plus team of trained mediators are all volunteers who try and help people involved in a dispute to ‘have their say’ and identify possible solutions.

Visit www.bhims.org.uk for more information.