EXCITED pupils were captivated during a rendition of an award-winning children's book.

Redhouse School, in Norton, was treated to a visit by BAFTA award-winning author Nicholas Allan for a story-telling session.

Youngsters sat attentively during an animated reading of The Queen's Knickers.

Mr Allan is an author of more than 30 children's books, including BAFTA-winning TV series Hilltop Hospital.

Pupils participated in an interactive story-telling session with the clever use of narration and puppetry.

Signed copies of The Queen's Knickers were handed out after the session.

Mike Brown, head of English, said: "It was terrific to see the children's imaginations captivated by such a magical performance, and for them to be able to take the book home and re-live the experience."

Hilltop Hospital was adapted into a television series for children, broadcast on ITV, and was seen in more than 40 countries.