MICHAEL Morpurgo fans were out in force on Friday, September 11 for a Villages in Action (ViA) fundraiser, held at the Beehive Centre, Honiton.

Before his performance, the celebrated children’s author and writer of “War Horse” explained why he has chosen to support ViA,

The event was opened by a speech from Roger Werner, the charity’s director of 21 years, and Councillor Rachel Sutton, Chair of Villages in Action.

Three generations listened as Mr Morpurgo read from books he has set in the South West, including War Horse, The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips and Where my Wellies Take Me.

After the performance, books were sold and signed, and, as they were generously donated by the Morpurgo’s, 100 per cent of the profit went to ViA.

The event raised £3,000 for ViA, of which Michael Morpurgo is a patron.