BLACKADDER star Sir Tony Robinson read excerpts from his latest series of books during a visit to a Wirral school.

The acclaimed actor, writer, presenter and political activist - who played Rowan Atkinson's happy-go-lucky but long-suffering sidekick Baldrick in the hit BBC comedy - read from the Weird World of Wonders during the event at Birkenhead School.

After launching himself onto the stage with characteristic energy, Sir Tony - whose wife is from Wirral - entertained a packed Bushell Hall full of students from prep, seniors and visiting local schools.

He then spent time talking with students and signing their very own copies of his books to take away and treasure.

The talk - organised in conjunction with Linghams booksellers in Heswall - was part of the School's English Enrichment programme, which aims to go beyond the national curriculum to inspire and engage students at Birkenhead School.

Paul Vicars, headmaster said: "We were delighted to welcome Sir Tony to the School in conjunction with Linghams.

"The children were thoroughly entertained and enthused throughout his talk.

"Particular highlights were seeing the pupils on stage re-enacting parts of history as well as teacher, Mr Mike Ryan, taking part in Egyptian Mummy embalming.

"I am sure that this will be a memory that will inspire and stay with our pupils for many years to come."

Sir Tony is one of a number of high-profile speakers to the School this year that have included former English Cricket Captain, David Gower, OBE and The Right Honourable Lord Storey, CBE.