STUDENTS received a visit from horror and fantasy writer Darren Shan.

The Trafalgar School at Downton played host to Shan’s visit prior to a book signing tour of the country to celebrate the release of his latest work, Palace of the Damned.

“Darren was great. He talked to the children, read excerpts and signed copies of his book for them,” said teacher Chris Clark.

Shan’s books have been on sale on 39 countries and been translated into 31 languages. He has topped the adult bestsellers charts in Hungary, Japan and Taiwan selling close to 15 million copies worldwide.

“He was very impressive. He can create vampires and monsters from nothing,” said Mrs Clark. “It was a delight to have him, a good treat.”