Sheffield Children's Book Awards 2014

All mended after my recent surgery, I can now go galavanting cross-country at will. Thank goodness, because otherwise I'd have had to miss out on attending the absolutely fantastic Sheffield Children's Book Awards.

The awards ceremony was so much fun! What a great day out for all the local schools who came along and made more noise than a very vocal gorilla getting to grips with a washing machine. My and Leonie Lord's bonkers book, 'Ding Dong Gorilla!' was shortlisted in the Picture Books category along with some absolute bobby dazzlers. Congratulations to Claire Freedman and Sue Hendra whose book 'Spider Sandwiches' took the prize (and from the roar of the children, I think they were pretty happy about that!)

​I signed about a million autographs, met lots of brilliant children, teachers, librarians, authors and illustrators and had an absolutely wonderful time. Huge thanks to the staff and children of Malin Bridge Primary School who joined me and Leonie in monkeying about after the ceremony. I called them all Bob because I didn't quite have the brain power to remember all their Actual Factual Names, and they didn't mind (not even the teachers - thank you, multi-Bobs).

​Gargantuan great gorilla thanks to Sheffield Libraries, particularly Jennie Wilson, for inviting me along and for all their hard work hosting such an incredible event that celebrates books and stories. Thanks also to Orchard Books for all the support. I really hope I get to go again in the future!