A TEACHER is boldly going into the world of science fiction with the publication of an adventure story for young readers.

David Jowsey, who teaches at Ravensworth Junior School, in Normanby, has written Dragons in the Sky. The story is told through the eyes of a ten-year-old.

Mr Jowsey said: "I've featured a range of local landmarks, including the Cleveland Hills, Captain Cook's Monument, Roseberry Topping and the Eston Mines, which I hope will be used in local schools and put Redcar and Cleveland on the literary map."

The idea for the novel, the first in a trilogy, came from Mr Jowsey's involvement in a drama workshop two years ago.

After spending more than 14 months writing, and two months illustrating the book, it will be on the shelves on Wednesday.

Mr Jowsey worked closely with local teaching and learning consultant Sue Urwin to develop the book into a study text for students.

Detailed chapter notes and discussion questions will turn it into a primary and secondary school resource, available on the internet. Councillor Steve Kay, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's cabinet member for education, said: "It would be remarkable for David Jowsey to see his novel taught in local schools."

Dragons in the Sky is published by Kedzie Press, priced £6.99. A donation from each sale of the book will be made to children's hospice Zoe's Place, in Normanby.