A young author has had her first book published at the age of 12.

Thorpe Bay youngster Sophie Powell wrote Princess and Floppy Ears, the story of a pony and a rabbit, after being inspired by her former home on a Surrey farm.

The book is about to hit the bookshops – just in time for Christmas.

And the generous youngster has promised to split the proceeds with her school, as a way of thanking it for its support.

Sophie, who goes to a Cecil Jones College, in Eastern Avenue, Southend, said: “The high academic standards of the school enabled me to write this book and I hope to write many more.

“My favourite authors are JK Rowling and Stephanie Meyer and one day I hope my books will be made into films, too.”

Her proud mum, Julie Powell, agrees her daughter’s success is down to to her teachers at the school.

Cecil Jones was recently praised by Ofsted inspectors for improving standards after being declared failing and put into special measures last autumn.

Mrs Powell, 54, said: “I think the book is a terrific advertisement for the school, which has vastly improved.

“Sophie is keen to say it is all down to this school’s English teaching.”

Sophie will be selling signed copies of Princess and Floppy Ears in Waterstones. in Southend High Street, on Saturday. from 11am. For information about other stockists, call 07835 365804.