A children's author joined pupils as they started a new chapter in the life of their school.

Eastern Daily Press: Author Saul Penfold with some of the pupils at Bawburgh School's newly extended library. From left, Abbi Lewis, 9; Gyles Harley, 8; and Leo Scotton, 9. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYAuthor Saul Penfold with some of the pupils at Bawburgh School's newly extended library. From left, Abbi Lewis, 9; Gyles Harley, 8; and Leo Scotton, 9. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Archant)

Saul Penfold, whose first novel was a time-travelling adventure story, was at The Bawburgh School in Hockering Lane to celebrate the opening of its new library.

The extended library houses around 20,000 books, and youngsters use it daily.

Craig Easterbrook, Year 6 class teacher and literacy co-ordinator at the school, said: 'Reading has the capacity to underpin all curiosity and knowledge.

'We hope that our rejuvenated library will provide a space where Bawburgh pupils can be inspired to new levels of learning and fun.'

Part of the old library was converted into three new toilets, and the building was extended to create a larger library than before.

It has been designed as a welcoming environment for children, with colourful rugs, seating and bookcases.

School governors made a commitment to continue pupil development by spending £3,000 on new books this year, and it is hoped that the library will continue to encourage children to read widely and develop a love of books.

Author Saul Penfold, who joined children to officially open the library, is a trained and experienced teacher in secondary RE and history.

He was the head of education at Norwich Cathedral for nine years before turning his hand to writing.

He now lives in north Norfolk and is the chairman of governors at Worstead Primary School.