TEENAGERS were given the chance to take part in workshops with a leading author yesterday.

Gervase Phinn, writer of Head Over Heals in the Dales, held a writing masterclass for a group of 60 year nine pupils from secondary schools across Hartlepool.

The event was organised by Hartlepool Borough Council's education department as part of the Excellence in Cities Gifted and Talented initiative.

Karen Adam, from the department, said: "Mr Phinn has a wide reputation as a sparkling and witty writer and broadcaster. I am sure he was a wonderful inspiration for the youngsters, as well as having plenty of practical writing tips for them."

A former teacher and schools inspector, Mr Phinn combines his writing career with work as a freelance lecturer, broadcaster and visiting professor of education at the University of Teesside.