Organised magnificently by publicist Philippa Perry, Templar Publishing hosted a celebratory dinner for illustrator Helen Ward, launching her latest book,  Wonderful Life.

'I've known for many years that Helen wanted to draw rockets,' said Art Director Mike Jolley after dinner. He described the book as a lively 'shake-up' of Helen's work, 'a slight departure... no, development. Set in outer space with invented creatures. ...It's about how the wonders of the universe are even more wonderful when they're shared.' Ward said a few words about her long relationship with Templar:

'I've been working for them for nearly half my life. ... The thought kept me awake.' She thanked her family, who were in attendance, and Managing Director Amanda Wood (who was unable to attend). 'If I see an advert in the newspaper's Lonely Hearts with Snutt and Waft [the book's main characters], I will know it's been quite a success.'

Before dinner, Ward's sister, Fran (also a designer and illustrator), mentioned Ward had bought a new dress for the night, especially to match the book's colour scheme. Their parents had come in from Gloucestershire for the occasion, and their brother Nathan also attended. Nathan Ward sat next to illustrator Sara Fanelli, who studied illustration with him in 1993 at the Royal College of Art, where Nathan now teaches Foundation. Nghiem Ta, designer for Templar's '-ology' books (Dragonology, Egyptology, etc) sat next to Fanelli. Independent book shops were represented by Zoë Greaves from Daunt Books (www.dauntbooks.co.uk), Karen Brown from The Well Wisher in Devizes, Wiltshire (www.wellwisher.biz), and guests from Tales on Moon Lane in Herne Hill (www.talesonmoonlane.co.uk). Also present were Nicky Marsh, head of education at Book Trust, Camilla de la Bedoyere from the Sunday Express Kids' Page and several staff from Templar, including editor Dugald Steer. Philippa Perry gave out copies of Ward's beautiful new book and Ward obliged with some signings. The Kew cottage sparkled that night, with its gallery of watercolour orchid studies and its view over the garden. And a tasty meal and free-flowing drinks ensured a lovely evening was had by all.

Written by Sarah McIntyre

Picture by Sarah McIntyre