PUPILS from Rodbourne Cheney Primary School enjoyed a talk from Swindon-born illustrator Steve Antony on Friday.

Steve popped by to award signed copies of his newest book ‘When I Grow Up’ to the winners of an imaginative illustration competition.

Throughout December and January, 50 children across Swindon were asked to draw a picture of what they would like to be when they grew up

Winning answers included teacher, pianist, shopkeeper, author and barmaid.

Steve is a Children’s Patron for Swindon Libraries.

He said: “I’m really impressed, I’ve had really colourful entries from three-year-olds to eight-year-olds.

“They range from the fantastical , like fairies, to things like footballers and YouTubers.

“It’s good for Swindon libraries to offer something extra like this, and it’s great that it was available in each library so everyone could take part.

“I’ve had a really good rapport with libraries since my first book was published.

“It’s been great to work with them and think of fun things to do.”

He announced the winning entries from the Covingham, Wroughton, Upper Stratton, Park South, Liden, and Rodbourne Cheney and Moredon Libraries.

Enthusiastic Rodbourne Cheney pupils eagerly got involved in his talk as he guided them through his detailed illustrations in ‘When I Grow Up’ which bring the words of author and comedian Tim Minchin to life.

The youngsters had been invited to the talk because their classes use the library regularly.

Debbie Jackson, outreach librarian, said: “Participation in this competition has been really high at community libraries, which is really good to see.

“Steve is brilliant, he’s such a good Children’s Patron and we are really pleased to have his support.

“It’s lovely to have the schools visit, events like these are so important and we are really keen for more schools and clubs to visit us.”

Cllr Mary Martin said: “Given the large amount of wonderful entries, I’m sure that choosing winners was quite the challenge, but I hope that everyone who took part enjoyed designing their entries.

“I’d like to thank creators of the book Steve Antony and Tim Minchin for encouraging children to think about their futures and to put their creative thoughts and ambitions onto paper.”

To find out more about booking class visits to a local library, email DJackson@swindon.gov.uk