PUPILS have been asking children's authors about their creative writing inspiration during a World Book Day event.

Children from Acklam Whin Primary School, Middlesbrough, received a surprise virtual visit from the Duchess of Cornwall, as well as authors Tom Fletcher, Zanib Mian and Katherine Rundell.

Middlesbrough Reads, which gave out 14,000 books, was behind the event, which was a partnership between World Book Day, the National Literacy Trust and Oak National Academy.

Pupils asked the authors questions about their inspirations, what they enjoy the most about World Book Day and which character they would most like to bring to life.

Pupils in Middlesbrough and beyond can also access a package of World Book Day activities to help them choose how to spend their £1 book tokens, which are being distributed in schools.

Allison Potter, Middlesbrough Reads hub manager said she was thrilled by the event.

She said: "I know the pupils couldn’t believe their luck at (digitally) meeting the special guest HRH The Duchess of Cornwall and the three £1 World Book Day authors.

"Their joy shines through the screen, and it certainly highlights Middlesbrough’s love of World Book Day to children and families across the country. The video is the icing on the cake, as we also received a remarkably generous donation of thousands of books.”

Middlesbrough Reads gave out 14,000 books across the town, including a copy of Tom Fletcher’s There’s a Wolf to every child under 6 and Gigantosaurus by Jonny Duddle for every child in Year 2.