THE written word took centre stage as literary students competed in an annual battle of the books.
Ripon Grammar School had the honour of hosting the Harrogate & District School Librarians' quiz after winning the contest last year.
This year they were gracious runners-up to Harrogate Grammar School who took the title after six closely fought rounds.
Comic artist Kev F Sutherland, whose work appears in The Beano and Dr Who Adventures, was quizmaster, posing the questions to the teams that also included Ashville College, Harrogate Ladies' College, Nidderdale High School, Roundhay School, St John Fisher Catholic High School, King James's School, Prince Henry's Grammar School, Rossetti School, St Aidan's CE High School and Harrogate High School.
Issy Murray, from Harrogate Grammar School, said: “We didn’t come with any expectations at all and just thought if we came 12th we’d be happy. We’re amazed to have won.”
There were also questions for parents and young siblings in the audience, with Bishop Thornton C of E Primary School winning the Junior Cup for their contribution.
Sally Dring, librarian at Ripon Grammar School, said: "After winning last year we were delighted to welcome everyone to RGS, and also to pass the baton on to this year's winners Harrogate Grammar.
"The quiz is a great fun event that helps to encourage a love of books and inspire young people to read more, helped this year by our fabulous quizmaster in Kev. It's also a great evening of friendly competition and we're very grateful to former Harrogate Ladies' College librarian Fiona Brady for setting the questions at just the right level."
Ripon Grammar food technology students made scones and biscuits for the interval and the welcome refreshments were served by the Parents' Association, with all donations going to the Jenny Unwin appeal.
The Little Ripon Book Shop also attended with books to buy.
