Lauren proves medics wrong

Talented Lauren Jones has written a book

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When Lauren Jones was diagnosed with autism, doctors told her parents that she would probably never be able to read and write.

But they were determined to prove the medical professionals wrong — and battled to get her into a mainstream school. And now the Crompton House pupil has written and illustrated her own book of children’s stories.

“Ten Bird Tales” includes the 16-year-old’s take on classics such as “The Ugly Duckling” and “Noah’s Ark” told from the perspective of the dove and four original stories.

Lauren’s mum Christine, of Firwood Park, Chadderton, has produced a hardback edition of the stories, which are accompanied by scores of Laurens illustrations.

Lauren was diagnosed with autism when she was two and a half. Her parents were also told she would never be independent and would have no imagination.

Though her development was slow, she progressed and started to read and write, then went to Mills Hill primary before moving to Crompton House. She now plans to move on to Oldham College to study art.

As well as writing her own stories, she also enjoys ballet and passed her GCSE maths.

“It is a wonderful achievement to get a GCSE and to go to Oldham College. She is such a talented girl and this will give hope to other families.”