A BORDERS author has been selected to return to his former primary school as an author in residence.

Burgh Primary School in Galashiels, which was one of ten chosen to take part in the Scottish Book Trust's author residencies programme, will welcome Alan Windram back to the school after the summer holidays.

The Live Literature School Residencies Programme is in its ninth year, with the residency places fully funded by the Walter Scott Giving Group.

Alan is the author of the award-winning One Button Benny books, and other children's picture books.

He said: "As a former pupil at the Burgh School, I am thrilled to have been invited to take part in this residency to work together with the pupils and teachers to celebrate 150 years of the school, creatively imagining this amazing legacy."

In his role as an author in residence, Alan will work with pupils across 14 sessions to help them find a lifelong love of reading and writing.

The sessions also give the professional writers involved the chance to build relationships with local schools and work on a creative project.

Emma Armstrong, depute headteacher at Burgh Primary School, said: "Having Alan, a distinguished past pupil, guide this residency holds special significance for our school, bridging the gap between past and present.

"His involvement adds a layer of authenticity and connection, enriching the experience for both children and the broader community.

"This residency is not just about storytelling; it’s about honouring our school’s heritage and celebrating the inspirational people of our alumni - in turn inspiring creativity and aspirations amongst our children".

The residency programme will run for the 2024/25 academic year, ending in May 2025.

In addition to the fully funded author residency, schools will receive a £500 resources grant from the Walter Scott Giving Group.

Marc Lambert, chief executive of Scottish Book Trust, added: "Well done to the ten schools across Scotland that have been selected for the Live Literature School Residencies Programme.

"It’s an incredibly valuable programme as it allows authors to build relationships with a school over time, and to inspire pupils to develop a love of writing and creative expression.

"These creative projects also offer the chance to engage with the local community, while promoting reading and writing cultures.

"We are grateful to our funders the Walter Scott Giving Group for making this programme available to all schools."