AUTHOR Stewart Foster, whose latest book Bubble Boy has been shortlisted for a top award, was at a Devizes primary school this week to help launch its new library.

Mr Foster was at Wansdyke on Monday to talk to pupils about the importance of books and then visited classrooms to hold writing workshops.

The revamped library has been transformed from a place that had old and uninspiring texts to a vibrant new space full of the latest titles and children's classics.

Deputy head Sam Heard and teacher Hamish Devon led the project and were backed by the Friends Of Wansdyke School. (FOWS)

Mr Heard said: "We all agreed what had happened to the library was a great shame and that a library was a crucial vehicle through which to ignite pupil’s love of books and reading.

"From that moment, the school’s parent body FOWS have been tirelessly fundraising to purchase new books for the library.

"Children and parents have all helped support the school’s aim to get a new library and took part in book swaps, swimming galas and attending the school summer fair."

Pupils Matthew and Emily Carter sold cookies and raised £200 and parent Mitch Griffiths, who is a professional artist, painted a mural on the library wall inspired by the children's favourite book characters.

Mr Heard said: "It really has been a huge community effort and one which all children within the school will benefit from.

"Reading is one of the fundamental skills we aim to give our children during their time at school. Once a good grounding in reading and comprehension is in place, children are far more likely to achieve in all areas of life.

"For me, providing the opportunity for pupils to find an author or genre which hooks a child’s love and passion for reading is a huge privilege .

"The school would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support and hard-work in raising money for the school. It simply would not have happened without them."

Mr Foster's book Bubble Boy has been shortlisted for the Sainsburys Children’s Literature awards and has received strong reviews in the media.

It tells the story of a boy confined to a bubble in a hospital room but has his life transformed by a mystery visitor.