Young readers can meet a children's author behind bars this summer — as Simon Hall returns to Shepton Mallet Prison for a three-day event.

From 9 to 11 August, visitors to the historic prison will be able to meet Simon, hear live readings, and get books signed, all included free with general admission.

Simon is the author of the popular Trouble on the Watermeadow Line series, with titles inspired by real-life train lines across the country. His latest release, The Portal of Time and Strawberry Line, features a mischievous character who ends up imprisoned in Shepton Mallet — giving the story a fun, local twist.

As well as meeting the author, families can take part in a special trail around the prison grounds to find Boo the toy giraffe, who also features in the new book.

The event runs from 11am to 5pm each day and is included with all types of entry, whether you're there for a self-guided tour or one of the site's puzzle-filled escape rooms.

Shepton Mallet Prison, a 400-year-old site with a long and often grim history, has become a major visitor attraction in recent years. Events like this offer a more family-friendly way to explore its stories.