Prestidge-ous honour for children's author

William Morris Primary School on Bretch Hill opened The Prestidge Library and welcomed author Lawrence Prestidge along to cut the ribbon to the facility named in his honour.

The new library was welcomed with a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by a full day of activities .

Headteacher Julie Hiddleston said: “I gave a little talk on why reading is important and why we love reading.

“Then Lawrence spoke a little bit on how he became an author and he’s now having half hour slots with each of the classes.”

Prior to The Prestidge Library opening the school had no equivalent facility so the addition of a fully functioning library is long overdue.

Ms Hiddleston said: “We didn’t have a library before, there just wasn’t one - it was literally a few shelves in the corridor. This area used to be part of the classroom so we’ve rearranged furniture in such a way that we can use it as a designated space.”

The author runs the school’s drama program and became involved with William Morris Primary whilst promoting his first book Rolo.

Mr Prestidge said: “My first book came out in May of last year and I was going around the local schools in Banbury and this is one I came to and I had such a strong connection with the children here.

“After that, and because I have a background in acting, I offered to come in and do a drama club.”

He added: “ They mentioned this library today and I was quite flattered actually when they said they were going to name it after me. It’s been brilliant.”