CHILDREN discovered some literary treasure as they celebrated the opening of a new library.

Colburn Primary School pupils became pirates for the day at the official opening of their new school library.

One of the guests at the Catterick Garrison school was best-selling children’s author Saviour Pirotta, who grew up in Malta and now lives in Saltaire in Yorkshire.

Mr Pirotta is the author of more than 100 children’s books and collections of fairytales and entertained the children with tales of pirates throughout the day.

Chairman of Richmondshire District Council, Councillor Jill McMullon also joined them.

The pirate-themed library was created with a grant from the Foyles Foundation, along with donations from the Friends of Colburn School and the support of local community groups.

Headmaster Mike Watt said: “We are committed to the promotion of reading and ensuring that children meet their full potential.

“We feel it is important to give them a special place to access and enjoy high quality books. The pirate theme was chosen by the children to create a fun and enjoyable place in which to learn.”

He said Year Six children are now working alongside North Yorkshire County Council’s library service to learn how to become junior librarians. The youngsters will help manage the facility and give access to the books beyond the school day.