A COMMUNITY worker set sail to the hot climbs of the Caribbean, but not for a holiday – she was promoting her new book. Jacky Rom puts in hours of her time as a volunteer and manager at the Dunmow Arts Centre in Haslers Place but in her spare moments (“there are not many of them,” she says) she is writing a new series of children’s books called All About Starr.

A COMMUNITY worker set sail to the hot climes of the Caribbean, but not for a holiday – she was promoting her new book.

Jacky Rom puts in hours of her time as a volunteer and manager at the Dunmow Arts Centre in Haslers Place but in her spare moments (“There are not many of them,” she admits) she is writing a new series of children’s books called All About Starr.

The paradise island of St Maarten provided the backdrop for the majority of the tour as Jacky made 12 appearances in 14 days at schools and universities.

“It was hard work,” she said. “But it was eye opening, informative and most of all great fun.

“I visited about eight schools, some after school projects in very poor parts of the island, and some dance schools.

“The most fun appearance was at The University of St Maarten – I lectured the trainee teachers using my book as a tool to teach English.

“They enjoyed it so much I’ve been invited back in November to do some drama workshops. Drama has only just been added to the curriculum so I arrived just at the right time.”

During her working holiday Jacky also managed to finish the fourth book in the series which details the continued adventures of a young girl called Starr.

She added: “I write all the books on the small island, it’s my retreat where I can go and be creative. This trip was giving back just a little something to the people who have made me so welcome.

“The whole experience was fab – I am looking forward to going back and visiting everyone again.”