A YOUNG art student and head teacher have combined their literary and artistic talent to launch a new book.

Mr Merrell, head teacher of Oldfield Brow Primary School, in Altrincham, approached Wellacre Academy, in Urmston, for help illustrating his new book ‘The Yellow Metal Monster’.

Wellacre’s leader of art Miss Niebel was keen to get our students involved and talented Year 11 student, Alexander Hickey, enthusiastically volunteered to help out.

‘The Yellow Metal Monster’ is told through the eyes of a young girl, Sapna, and centres around the lives of the children and adults living in a small Indian village called Kandikhal, a place often visited by Mr Merell and his family.

Determined and inspiring, Sapana’s infectious enthusiasm keeps the reader engaged throughout the story.

Alex and Ms Niebel worked each night after school for six weeks to create the artwork.

Upon publication, Mr Merrel visited the village with his book, where it got a warm reception.

Both Alex and Ms Niebel were thrilled to receive copies of the book along with a letter from Sapna and a photo.

Mr Merrell has dedicated his book to all the children of Kandikhal, as well as children who have attended Garhwal English Medium School and Oldfield Brow Primary School.

Wellacre Academy said it is enormously proud of Alex and his work and thanked Ms Niebel for inspiring Alex to become a young published illustrator.