YOUNGSTERS in Bolton have been brushing up their literacy skills during the holidays with the help of a poet.

John Siddique spent a day with more than 20 children at a literacy summer school in St Joseph's High School, Horwich. With his help, the 11-year-olds wrote poetry in different styles, including "mediaeval" and the style used by Chaucer. They also wrote modern poetry.

The poetry workshop was part of a two-week course where children improved their literacy skills through fun activities including drama and history projects.

The poet also talked to the youngsters about how music inspires him to write.

Lorraine Kimblin, co-ordinator of the summer literacy school, said: "It was very beneficial for the pupils."