WAR Horse author Michael Morpurgo is set to headline a literary festival organised by pupils from Monmouth’s three senior schools.

The award-winning children’s novelist is due to speak about many of his best-loved works, including Private Peaceful and its importance as the centenary of the Somme approaches.

Running from June 21 to June 29, the Monmouth Literary Festival is now in its third year.

It is planned and run by volunteers from Monmouth School, Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls and Monmouth Comprehensive.

Annabel Talco, 16, a boarder at HMSG, who is on the committee, said: “Michael Morpurgo’s books have been read by just about every child in the country – he has such a magical way of storytelling and we are delighted to have him as our headliner.

“I love reading and I liked the idea of being involved in something that would encourage other students to feel the same way. Helping to organise events has also been good preparation for the future – we played a big part in the process and it’s been really enriching.”

The majority of the many events during the festival are open only to local children, with around 10 schools benefitting from the various workshops. T

icketed readings, such as Morpurgo’s at The Savoy Theatre on June 21, will be open to members of the public.

Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy, is returning once again to perform alongside other poets, at a public event entitled Shore to Shore at The Savoy Theatre on June 22.

HMSG committee member Maya Hanson, 17, said: “This year we have really upped our game and secured some unbelievably talented acts.

“I believe that all members of the public should support the festival as it is vital for it to be passed on to younger generations. The festival isn't just about education, it's about coming together and supporting the town in order for it to fulfil its potential.

For the full line-up visit habs-monmouth.org