World famous author inspires pupils with visit to old school

Peter May, a former Eastwood High pupil, visited the school this week to present an award which has been named in his honour.

The Peter May Cup for Creative Writing was started three years ago, with pupils’ submitting entries in a bid to win the trophy.

This year’s winner was 3rd year pupil Katie Grant, who impressed the judges with her story about the mapping of friendship networks.

Peter was delighted to have the opportunity to visit the school to speak about his creative journey, offering advice and tips to the budding writers who wish to follow in his footsteps.

Eastwood High School Head Teacher Stuart Maxwell said: “Peter is a brilliant author and it was fantastic to welcome him back to Eastwood. The pupils gained an enormous amount from Peter’s visit and enjoyed hearing about his career and achievements since leaving the school.

“I think Peter may have motivated a few of them to aspire to become an author themselves – as a former pupil it makes it a lot more real for them.”

Peter is one of Scotland’s most prolific television dramatists, and his books have sold millions of copies worldwide. His first novel, “The Reporter”, was adapted as a major BBC television drama series and he has won numerous awards for his work in the UK, USA, and France.