A FORMER St Laurence School pupil has just signed her first book deal with one of the UK’s leading publishers.

Jess Butterworth, formerly of Bradford on Avon, has agreed a two-book deal with Orion Children's Books to publish her debut novel, Running on the Roof of the World, in June 2017.

The 27-year-old, now living in Frome, was overjoyed at the deal, which she hopes will be a springboard for future success.

"I am completely thrilled. I hope this is the start of a long career as a writer and I am excited to see what the future holds," said Ms Butterworth, who studied Creative Writing BA (Hons) and a Masters in Writing for Young People at Bath Spa University.

“I wanted to write an adventure that’s grounded in real settings and events. The book has found its perfect home at Orion and it’s a delight to be working with the wonderful team there.”

As part of her research for the book, based on the tale of a 12-year-old who escapes from Tibetan soldiers, seeks help from the Dalai Lama and journeys across the Himalayas, she lived in India, which helped provide part of the inspiration for the novel.

Felicity Johnston, commissioning editor at Orion Children’s Books, said: “Jess is a remarkable new talent. There is an extraordinary energy in her writing, and a wonderful sense of place, with all the sights, smells and tastes you could wish for.

"It is rare to find a debut novel so fresh and different – we cannot wait to publish it.”

The book will be published in June 2017 with an unnamed sequel to follow in 2018.

Jess Butterworth’s agent, Sallyanne Sweeney of Mulcahy Associates, said: “Jess’s writing drives you straight into the heart of Tibet and the Himalayas and I cannot wait for readers to fall in love, as I have, with Tash and Sam's story.

"Felicity and the Orion Children's Books team are the perfect fit for Running on the Roof of the World and I'm so pleased to have them launch Jess' writing career in 2017.”