Susan Morris, who attended the school from 1958 to 1963, was invited to read an extract from her newly published book, 'Fritha's Summer', to the children, and to think and talk about story ideas and the realities of writing with them.

The book is set in Cornwall and follows three children from their ordinary safe home in Harebell road to a derelict caravan in Cornwall where they find new friends, hidden treasure, danger and the answer to a family secret.

"It was exciting and so tempting I wished Mrs Morris had kept reading because I really wanted to know what the treasure was," said Alysia who is in year six.

Classmate, Emily, explained that she has already started to write her first book and found Mrs Morris' visit a great inspiration.

She said: "My book is all about a boy who runs away. I'm not sure what the ending is going to be yet, but I know it's going to be happy. Listening to Mrs Morris talking about writing has really encouraged me to finish it and given me some great ideas."

Mrs Morris was equally excited about her return visit to the school, although she noticed a few changes.

She said: "I very much enjoyed 'coming back'. Some of the school buildings I did not recognise at all, for instance the old Hall seems to have vanished, but the main staircase and the stained glass window in the senior school were very familiar, and also the stairs which used to lead up to the Upper VI classrooms. The catering was most impressive! I was treated to a delicious lunch in the dining hall.

"The children were delightful - so enthusiastic, polite and pleasant and happy to think and talk about ideas for stories. It was great fun for me to spend time with them."