A BESTSELLING children’s author cut an impressive figure during a visit to a secondary school which combined story-telling with swordplay.

Chris Bufford visited year 7 students at Davenant Foundation School, in Chester Road, Loughton, to talk about his Young Samurai series of novels.

The books, set in 17th century Japan, follow the exploits of young English lad Jack Fletcher as he seeks to learn the way of the samurai, and have now been published in 16 different countries.

During his visit to Davenant, Mr Bufford spoke about the inspiration for his novels and talked of the history of the samurai and their place in the traditions of Japan.

To the delight of pupils and staff he also brought along his own samurai sword and delivered a demonstration of its use.

Librarian Sandra Arter said: “His workshop was inspiring, and a comment from a student this morning was ‘He made an educational event seem fun’.

“His success was reflected by students and staff who came to chat to him and buy his book.”