Local author and storyteller Chris Connaughton is offering booksigning visits to schools in the Southampton, Eastleigh and Hedge End area this term.

Chris began writing the 'Beltheron' series of novels several years ago, alongside his 'day job' as an actor in theatre, television and radio. Those of you with long memories may remember Chris from TV appearances on programmes such as 'Byker Grove', Catherine Cookson's 'The Tide of Life' and 'Spender'. 

He began specialising in theatre for young audiences 15 years ago. After working as an associate artist with CTC and Hullabaloo Theatre he set up his own company, Intext Performance, to produce new writing and storytelling. Intext now travels throughout the UK and visits over 100 schools every year. 

The idea for the books came during long car journeys between schools, when he decided he wanted to try to create the sort of fantasy adventure that he enjoyed reading while he was growing up. 'The Beltheron Pathway' was released in 2008, followed by 'The Beltheron Select' last year. Both books have been extremely well received by children and staff up and down the country. 'I'm delighted with the comments that I have been receiving,' Chris says. 'The response has been very rewarding and It's exciting to see my books on the desks when I walk into a classroom.'

Chris has a great belief in the power and importance of stories and drama in the curriculum. He encourages staff to speak to him about what they would like during a visit, so that a session in their school is specifically geared to their requirements.The visits can include readings from the novels, a question and answer session with him about the books and his writing process followed by a book-signing for those who wish to buy a copy.  He also brings along free signed copies for the school library.

Anyone who would like to book a visit can email chris at chrisconnaughton@hotmail.com or go to www.thebeltheronpathway.com to find out more about the books. 

Information on his plays, stories and literacy workshops can be found at  www.intextperformance.com