THE written word took centre stage as literary students competed in an annual battle of the books.

Ripon Grammar School hosted the Harrogate and District School Librarians' quiz after winning the contest last year.

And this year they were gracious runners-up to Harrogate Grammar School who took the title after six closely fought rounds.

Comic artist Kev F Sutherland, whose work appears in The Beano and Dr Who Adventures, was quizmaster, posing the questions to the teams from across the sprawling district.

There were also questions for parents and young siblings in the audience, with Bishop Thornton CE primary winning the Junior Cup for their contribution.

Sally Dring, librarian at Ripon Grammar School, said: "After winning last year we were delighted to welcome everyone to RGS, and also to pass the baton on to this year's winners.

“The quiz is a great fun event that helps to encourage a love of books and inspire young people to read more, helped this year by our fabulous quizmaster in Kev.”

“It's also a great evening of friendly competition and we're very grateful to former Harrogate Ladies' College librarian Fiona Brady for setting the questions at just the right level.”