Devon author hailed as 'inspirational' for award-winning book on overcoming childhood abuse
A Devon author has been praised as “inspirational” for his award-winning book which charts how a sense of adventure helped him overcome the torment of childhood sexual abuse.
Iain Peters was the centre of attention at a celebratory event organised by an Exeter-based lawyer after land the prestigious 2025 Boardman Tasker Award for Mountain Literature.
Iain teamed up with Enable Law solicitors to take part in an emotional discussion about his acclaimed new book, 'The Corridor’, which tells the story of his recovery from childhood abuse.
The 77-year-old father-of-three and grandfather's autobiography is a deeply moving account of survival and creation of a meaningful life after experiencing sexual abuse at boarding school.
Iain fought back tears – as did fellow panellists and audience members - in a candid talk as he told a captivated audience at Enable Law’s Glass Wharf city centre office about his remarkable journey.
The event heard how Iain, who lives in rural North Devon with wife Ellen, had gone from the depths of despair to seeing his abuser brought to justice in the courts and how he is now actively trying to help others.
Former Jackanory storyteller John Earle was jailed for four years in 2017 after admitting indecently assaulting Iain when he was a child, while working as deputy head teacher at Upcott House Preparatory School in Okehampton, Devon, between 1957 and 1961.
Iain's book explains how a love for the outdoors life and the way he has relished the many physical challenges of climbing have helped him overcome the trauma of childhood abuse. He also stressed how important counselling was in the healing process.
Iain was joined at the celebratory book launch by event host Gary Walker, Head of Abuse at Enable Law, and fellow speaker Dr Kim Bond, Head of Development at The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC).
Iain said: “I must admit I have been overwhelmed not only by my Boardman Tasker Awards success – an achievement way beyond my dreams when I first sat down to write – but also by the tremendous show of support I’ve received from friends, family and many other people.
“While the book has been cathartic, my over-riding goal is to help other victims of sexual abuse so they can find a way to free themselves of the shame and guilt that is the legacy of rape and allow light back into their lives.
“It felt fitting that Enable Law should show their own support by kindly providing a platform for me to promote my book because they are important allies of people like me who have survived sexual abuse.
“Everyone at Enable Law has made me realise that behind all the laws and legal processes there are real, caring human beings who are an integral part of the healing process and the search for justice.”
During the Enable Law event, through open conversation and shared experience, Iain and Kim explored what true support looks like, legally, emotionally and socially and how it can lead to lasting change and, equally important, closure and justice for victim survivors.
Gary, an Enable Law partner who is based at the firm’s Exeter office, said: “It was an honour for Enable Law to host Iain, hear more about his life and help him spread the word about his inspirational and ultimately joyful story.
“We are proud to support Iain with the book launch. In bravely speaking out about his recovery from sexual abuse, his experience will show other people that they can move forward with their lives and have the final say.
“I have a huge amount of admiration for Iain and the way he is raising the profile of sexual abuse. His example will mean those who have experienced abuse will recognise that they do not need to suffer in silence and that hope and joy are possible
“As an experienced advocate for survivors of abuse, with a focus on enabling individuals to seek justice with compassion and care, I am certain that by being so courageous, Iain will be a force for good for a very long, not only because he represents hope and healing but also because his extraordinary book is so powerful it will resonate with many other people.”
A portion of proceeds from sales of the book at the Enable Law event have gone to NAPAC to help other people nationwide.
Kim, who is based at NAPAC’s London HQ, added: “Iain is an extraordinary writer and public speaker who has a rare ability to talk about abuse and recovery with honesty and humour.
“It was a privilege to speak about NAPAC alongside him, and I was really struck by how hopeful the day felt. He has helped others find words for experiences they have been carrying for a long time.
“We are deeply grateful Iain is using The Corridor to support other survivors. By donating a share of proceeds to NAPAC and using his platform to highlight our support line and resources, Iain is helping more people know that support is there when they are ready.
“For both of us, it matters that we don’t only talk about pain - recovery and joy are absolutely part of the story for survivors, and something every survivor deserves to experience.”
