A local children’s author and illustrator is “thrilled” after learning she has been put in the same bracket as Suffolk greats, composer Benjamin Britten and charity pioneer Sue Ryder.

Rebecca Elliott, 34, from Great Cornard, has become a regular visitor to Acton Primary School, which has just expanded as part of the schools reorganisation programme. She has spent time with the students there, helping them with their drawing and writing techniques.

The children found her so inspiring, the school has now decided to name one of its newly formed houses after her. The other three houses will be named after Sue Ryder, Benjamin Britten and boxer Anthony Ogogo.

The school’s headteacher Julie O’Neill said: “We chose people the kids could look up to and who would inspire them to be the best they could. We voted for Rebecca because she inspired the children to want to write and illustrate their own work. She also has a daughter with a disability, and as we have also chosen a Paralympic value for each house, Elliott house will have ‘equality’ as its value. It’s so nice to have someone who has visited the school and made such a lasting impression.”

Mrs Elliott, who has written and illustrated several books based on her three children and was nominated for the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal, said she was “amazed” to be included alongside such inspiring people.

She added: “It’s great to be able to go into schools like Acton, which really encourage the arts. I’ve always tried to get across the message that if you work hard, there’s no reason why anyone can’t make a living doing what they enjoy. I’m honoured to have a house named after me and I just hope I can live up to the accolade.” Mrs Elliott presented a framed illustration to the school this week at a special awards day.