Look Who’s writing

THE creative director of the BBC s hugely popular Doctor Who books visited a St Neots school to share some of his secrets with pupils. Justin Richards, the author of more than 20 novels including The Invisible Detective and Doctor Who, visited Longsands C

THE creative director of the BBC's hugely popular Doctor Who books visited a St Neots school to share some of his secrets with pupils.

Justin Richards, the author of more than 20 novels including The Invisible Detective and Doctor Who, visited Longsands College.

Year 8 pupils met the author, who revealed that some of the ideas for his books had come from his experiences growing up as child in what he believed was a haunted house.

The visit, organised by college librarian Andrew Hynes, took place to coincide with National Book Week.

Pupils were also asked who their favourite authors were, and books by these writers were ordered and put in the college library in a bid to encourage students to read more. The most popular author was Jacqueline Wilson, whose books include the story of Tracey Beaker.

Mr Hynes said: "Inviting authors to come into school and meet students encourages the pupils to think about different styles of writing and the inspiration behind many books.

"It also helps bring books come to life by meeting the author of a book they have read and will hopefully encourage them to read more.