SIXTH form students learnt about the crisis in Syria from an expert.

Diana Darke, who wrote ‘My House in Damascus: An Inside View of the Syrian Crisis’ spoke to Chipping Campden School students as part of the Chipping Campden Literature Festival.

The author's interest in the Middle East was sparked by a course in Arabic Studies at Oxford and she described to the 17 and 18 year-olds her journey towards becoming a close member of the community in Damascus.

She then talked to students about her work and life experiences that had led her to purchase a property in the heart of the ancient city, her deep affection for the Syrian people, and the course of events since the rebellion against the Assad regime.

A proportion of funds from the sale of her book goes towards a special Syrian Higher Education fund.

Students were able to get their own copy of the book signed by the author.