POPULAR writer and friend of Saltburn, Frank English recently the town for the first time since the pandemic began.

As he approached Saltburn, travelling over from Lancaster, he was surrounded by an advancing sea fret. “But the mist suddenly cleared,” he said, “and there was Saltburn, beautiful and bathed in sunshine.”

Mr English is old friends with Mike Hampton, owner of Holly Blue card, gift and stationery shop, and has visited for book events and signings since the store opened just over five years ago. “It’s lovely to be back,” he said.

The writer is well known for his children’s books, his semi autobiographical series "Jack", and his interesting collaborative work with youngsters – or "apprentice writers" – resulting in several books.

Asked about his experience of the pandemic and lockdown, he said he capitalised on the opportunity to work. “I began a new direction, completing two years of research to write a fictional historical industrial saga based in the North Riding in Victorian times, named ‘Hidden Secrets,’" he said.

"I have recently completed the sequel ‘Secrets Revealed’. I also produced volume seven of my ‘Jack’ series ‘Where to now, Jack?’. And I did a great deal of work with the apprentice writers via email and social media."

The author has collaborated with the young writers in several formats, all resulting in books. He has worked with individuals (The Spirit Tree), with groups within a class (Half Moon Farm), and with whole classes (Garnett’s Grand Getaway).

Perhaps the author’s greatest challenge was creating a forthcoming book where an entire school participated.

“St Luke’s school in Skerton, Lancashire, has an excellent ethos, embracing friendship, loyalty, inclusivity, and support,” he explained. “These values were reflected in all the elements of storytelling throughout the school. There is great joy and connection with the children as they present their ideas and writing, refining both as they become more confident.”

Mr English is looking forward to returning to Saltburn and Holly Blue in December.