AN acclaimed Merseyside author will celebrate the arrival of new children’s books at Leasowe library this weekend.

Frank Cottrell Boyle will appear at the library on Sunday, March 1 at 2pm, to celebrate the arrival of new books purchased through a £1,500 grant from the Siobhan Dowd Trust.

One of Britain’s most successful screenwriters and novelists, he wrote the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony, which received worldwide acclaim.

His film scripts include 24 Hour Party People, Welcome to Sarajevo and A Cock and Bull Story with director Michael Winterbottom, and Millions with Danny Boyle, his novel of which received the prestigious Carnegie Medal.

During Saturday's visit – which has been rearranged from November - Frank will talk about some of his own work, answer questions and sign copies of his books. There will also be a free raffle for all children at the event.

Councillor Chris Meaden, cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “It’s very exciting to be able to welcome Frank to Leasowe Library.

“In recent years he has officially become a national treasure, and I’m sure he’ll be an engaging speaker with some fascinating insights into novel and scriptwriting.

“This is yet another brilliant event for Wirral Council’s library service.”

The event is being organised by Leasowe Reading and Wellbeing Library, a collaboration between Wirral Council and the Reader Organisation promoting public engagement, improving users’ health and wellbeing, and reducing social isolation.
 

Victoria Clarke, reading and wellbeing library development officer at the Reader Organisation said: “We’re delighted to welcome Frank to Leasowe Library to celebrate the arrival of the brand new books and the fantastic work that The Reader Organisation and Wirral Libraries have been delivering there.

“I know Frank’s looking forward to meeting the young people who take part in activities at the library and sharing his own childhood reading experiences with them.”

Tickets are free but advance booking is essential.