RENOWNED author Gervase Phinn inspired a group of North-East students yesterday, as he dropped in to a host a series of workshops.

Prof Phinn was at Polam Hall School, in Darlington, to oversee the events, designed to stimulate youngsters' imaginations. Parents were also involved in the creative sessions.

The former North Yorkshire school inspector is the best-selling author of The Other Side of the Dale, and Over Hill and Dale.

Headteacher Marie Green said: "We are delighted that Prof Phinn found time in his busy schedule to come and spend the day with us.

"His public speaking appearances are always a sell out so it was a treat for the girls and their parents to meet him and to enjoy his workshops and talk."