A writer of children’s books from West Sussex brought his creative stories to an audience at a recent book event in Brighton.

Matt Newnham, the mind behind the Space Ranger Fred series, shared excerpts from his latest work Space Ranger Fred and the Great Galactic Bake Off as part of the Brighton Book Festival’s Off the Page Open Mic programme.

The event took place at Afrori Books of Black Origin in Brighton and included contributions from various writers.

In Mr Newnham’s view, it becomes immediately apparent what holds interest, wherever laughter emerges, wherever questions arise, and that’s when narrative truly connects.

His publications are aimed at children between six and twelve years old and blend humour, adventure and fundamental scientific ideas to encourage curiosity and involvement.

This appearance was one of several recent engagements as the writer expands his schedule of festival spots and school visits.

Upcoming commitments involve taking part in the Cuckfield Book Festival set for later this year, along with arranged visits to schools across the region.

His classroom sessions emphasise the pleasure of reading and support students in developing confidence and oral skills through interactive story delivery.

Mr Newnham also contributes to dialogues about childhood literacy and the wider decline in leisure reading among young people.