The Oscar-nominated co-writer of acclaimed sword-and-sandals epic Gladiator is visiting Eastbourne to talk to local schoolchildren about his work.

William Nicholson will give a talk on screenwriting to about 50 children aged 11 to 13 at East Sussex County Council's library services centre in Hammonds Drive on Friday at noon.

The pupils will be discussing books to be considered for the Carnegie Medal - an honour bestowed on children's books since 1936.

Mr Nicholson's other film work includes Camelot adventure First Knight and Jodie Foster drama Nell.

The Eastbourne Technology College, Willingdon Community School, Filsham Valley in Hastings and Robertsbridge Community College will be among the schools and colleges represented at the event.