Ref. 72697-108BUDDING young authors at a Swindon school have been given an insight into the life of a writer following the visit of a children's author.

Eileen Browne, who has written and illustrated such children's books as Handa's Hen, Handa's Surprise and the Witch's Funny Bone spend a day at Holy Family Catholic Primary School, Marlowe Avenue yesterday. She talked to the 250 children about how she gathered ideas for the books, and what life is like being author as part of the school's Book Fair.

Teacher Karen George who helped to organise the day said: "The children really seemed fascinated by what Eileen had to say.

"They really enjoyed a special fruit tasting session which was inspired by a character in one of Eileen's books, so they could try Passion Fruit, Avocado and Mangoes, something they don't get to try everyday."

Younger children looked closely at the stories and picture, while the older children in years five and six were given an insight into Eileen's inspiration.

Ms George said: "We have lots of talented children in the school and I would like to think that this visit might have inspired a few of them to become authors in the future."

The school's Book Fair sold a range of books and also helped to raise money for school funds.