Primary school pupils will meet their literary heroes at a South Cumbrian book festival takes place next month.
Popular children’s author Frank Cottrell Boyce will visit to hold sessions at the event at Ormsgill Primary and Nursery School in Barrow on June 13 as part of the Ormsgill Book Festival.
He will be joined by award-winning writer Jennifer Killick and illustrator Fiona Woodcock.
Frank’s work is well-known to the pupils and he has amassed young fans across the world with best-selling books including Millions, Cosmic, Framed, Runaway Robot and The Wonder Brothers.
He is also a screenwriter for Doctor Who and Coronation Street as well as acclaimed films including Goodbye Christopher Robin and wrote the only words the Queen ever acted in the Platinum Jubilee Paddington sketch.
Children’s novelist Jennifer, who penned the Alex Sparrow books as well as junior horror including the DreadWood series, will run workshops. Popular illustrator and picture book author Fiona will also lead a draw-a-long.
Pupils from schools in South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust, those from Sacred Heart and others across the area will take part in the festival, which is in its sixth year.
It was set up by Ormsgill School assistant headteacher Laura Reid who wanted to create a memorable experience for children to inspire their love of reading.
“When I started the festival I had little idea of how much it would grow and the line up we have this year is incredible,” she said.
“The pupils are so excited to meet the amazing authors who have not only created their favourite characters but the worlds they delve into through reading. This further ignites their passion, which is key to all learning.
“We are also really proud to share this event with the wider Trust schools and local communities to bring everyone together.”
Barrow Town Council, TI Accountancy, accountants JF Hornby, BAE Systems and Nuclear Transport Solutions have supported the event with funding ranging from £500 to £2,500 for speakers and books.
Books will be available to be signed on the day and can also be pre-ordered via bookseller Sam Read of Grasmere.
