A children’s book written by Ilkley author Anita Ganeri has scooped a prestigious award.

Planet in Peril has been named Best Book with Facts in the Blue Peter Book Awards.

The book, published by Scholastic, is part of the best-selling Horrible Geography series and informs youngsters of how to save the planet in times of global warming.

It was announced as an award winner at the Blue Peter studios last week after presenters from the show handed Anita her award at the top of Ilkley Moor.

Speaking from her home in Ben Rhydding, Anita said: ‘‘It was wonderful to get the award. I never dreamed that I would. I am particularly proud because at the moment this is the only award for children’s non-fiction books. Hopefully it will raise the profile of this type of book because it is a field in which British authors are world leaders.’’ Anita, 47, was awarded her trophy by Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton.

Anita said: ‘‘The plan was originally to go to a very nice local teashop to have tea and cakes but it got changed at the last minute to tie in with the geographical theme and I found myself sitting on a rock with a howling gale blowing.

‘‘My lips were so cold, I could hardly get any words out when Helen presented me with the award but it entertained lots of people walking past with their dogs.

‘‘I have been a fan of the show since I was six and even named my dog after the Blue Peter dog, so winning an award from the show was very special.’’ Anita’s book is a guide to the environmental issues children are most concerned about.

She said: ‘‘Because it is in the Horrible Geography series it is written in a fun way and offers mountains of things readers can do to save the planet. The book tells what state the planet is currently in and gives advice on what we can do to stop the rot.

‘‘There are lots of simple ideas in there alongside some wacky ones. Even making a wormery can make a difference.

‘‘It is really important that everyone plays their part in trying to save the planet and I hope that this book will encourage young people to do what they can.’’ Anita, who was born in Calcutta, India, has written over 400 books for children on subjects including religion, Asian food, geography, biography and natural history. Anita moved to the area 20 years ago and lives with her husband and two children in Ben Rhydding.