Oxenhope author Robert Swindells has made it into Who's Who after almost 30 years of writing children's books.

The prize-winning writer is among 1,000 people added to this year's edition of the world-famous handbook of well-known people.

Along with film star Hugh Grant and athlete Steve Cram, he was invited to submit his details for the £130 reference book.

Robert, of Denholme Road, admits being flattered to find himself in the company of millionaires, politicians, royalty and TV celebrities.

But he wonders what made the publishers choose him in this particular year when he has been writing for so long.

Robert, 62, has written about 60 books since his first novel, When Darkness Comes, was published soon after he finished teacher training.

The inspiration for many of his stories came from his days as a primary school teacher, and he still aims many books at the nine to 13 age group.

Robert won the Children's Book Award in 1985 and 1990, and the prestigious Carnegie Medal in 1993 for the novel Stone Cold.

Robert's entry in Who's Who lists his parentage, education, previous jobs and all his published books.

He was born in March 1939 and trained as a teacher following work in newspapers and as an engineering inspector.

He lists his recreations as walking, cruising, theatre, painting and travel.