HE IS known for his successful novels and screenplay of a TV show starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

But on March 16 David Nicholls returned to his roots at Barton Peveril Sixth Form College.

The man behind One Day and Sky Atlantic’s BAFTA winning Patrick Melrose gave a speech to current students, offering his expertise.

He said: "It was such a pleasure to revisit Barton Peveril, even electronically. I have such fond memories of my time there, the teachers I met and the friends I made. A fantastic two years.”

After finishing his studies at Barton Peveril in 1985, David has had a prolific writing career.

His novel One Day was later adapted for the screen in a film featuring Ann Hathaway.

The talk, held over a video call, was part of the college’s Aspire Programme, which is a series of lectures and support for high-achieving students.

Speaking on his participation in the programme, Barton Peveril’s head of careers and higher education, Shoonagh Hubble, said: "Barton Peveril students were treated to a fascinating insight into the creative process when novelist and screenwriter David Nicholls joined Subject Leader for English Literature, Tom Voaden, for a discussion about David's work.

“Students asked incisive questions on subjects ranging from the female voice to how to adapt literature for the screen. David spoke fondly about his time at Barton, particularly about the opportunities to do experimental writing and performance, and credits his time at the college as being formative in his writing career.”