THE author of one of Scotland’s best-loved series of children’s books is returning to his old school to launch his latest story.

Alan Windram will perform a free children’s event at Burgh Primary School in Galashiels on Saturday, March 16 between 12-1pm. 

He will debut his new picture book, Kevin the Orange, during the afternoon which is open to families from right across the Borders.

Galashiels-born Windram has enjoyed great success with the One Button Benny series of picture books. 

It follows the adventures of a brave little robot as he carves out his place in the world. 

The books are illustrated by Chloe Holwill-Hunter, from Lauder, deepening its Borders roots. 

Windram said: “Coming home is always a special thing and to be able to launch my new book in my old school is just prefect. 

“I have such fond memories of the Burgh and one of the teachers at the time, Mrs Gray, was extremely influential in encouraging my creativity. 

“I often got easily distracted in the classroom and my grades were not fantastic, but I had a vivid imagination, which she encouraged me to channel into art and story writing. 

“It is also great to have support from the Scottish Book Trust to let us run events in Gala that are open to everyone and hopefully inspire the next generation of local storytellers to pick up their pens and write.”

The event is free thanks to support from the Burgh Primary School Parent/Carer Council and the Scottish Book Trust through its Live Literature programme which links authors with schools and communities across the 
country.

In 2023, Windram helped launch the Book for Burgh campaign which provided the school with more than 150 new books for pupils of all ages. 

He also hosted a special story-time assembly to almost 200 pupils.

Dave Scott, from the Burgh Parent Teacher Council, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alan back to the Burgh as we prepare to celebrate its 150th birthday next year. 

“This is a school at the very heart of our town and that’s why we are making this event free of charge and open to everyone who might like to bring a child or grandchild along to enjoy Alan’s show. 

“There are families who have attended the Burgh for four or five generation and over the next 18 months we are hoping to hold events which will bring more former pupils back to see the school and share their memories of times gone by.”