Custardly Wart: Pirate (third class)

After studying English and Drama, Alan started working life in a travelling theatre company, visiting schools all over the country and writing much of their material. He says it was a useful apprenticeship - if the audience didn't like the play, they talked through it or threw bits of paper at the actors. He very quickly learned what children liked.

In addition to writing and directing plays, Alan trained as a drama teacher. He has written stories and dramas for the BBC (both television and radio), as well as many children's books.