AUTHOR Guy Bass has been given the stamp of approval by pupils at Holy Rood Junior School.

Children at the school in Upham Road got two treats yesterday as they were visited by the author and staff from the British Postal Museum and Archive.

The Scholastic Book Fair has been taking place this week at the school and to mark the occasion children’s author Guy visited to give a talk to the children.

Guy, who is known for his 13 books, including Dinkin Dings And The Frightening Things, said that he was never a fan of reading when he was younger but hoped he could inspire children.

He said: “I was a very reluctant reader – when we are told something is good for us and important we don’t want to do it.

“It is great to come to see the children, I spend a lot of time sat in my study writing so it is nice to get out and children are every honest so if they don’t like something they will tell you.

“I think people like my books because I combine humour with adventure, which is what I like and I take a sideways angle to writing.

“It is really satisfying to know that children are enjoying my books, and I feel so lucky to be able to make a living out of writing.”

Children at the school were also given a visit during the day by The Stamps In Schools project, which is sponsored by The British Postal Museum and Archive.

Erene Grieve gave a presentation on the history of stamps and showed pupils how to start a collection.

She said: “I think there is something in all of us that makes us enjoy collecting. Being with young people and seeing their enthusiasm is infectious and it is part of their history, which is important.”

Year 5 teacher Jo Milsom said: “It is great to have people in to talk to the children – they have really enjoyed themselves.”