Looking back on 2006!

2006 has been a big year for news - bird flu, the World Cup, Steve Irwin's death and Richard Hammond's lucky escape.

Press Packer Anna has written a report about some of the big news stories that caught her attention as well as including some important dates of her own.

"This year has been packed full of events!

In January a whale was found in the river Thames in central London - I live by the Thames so it must have swum past my house! Even after people tried to help it survive, it died later on.

Bird flu and football

The Thames Whale

Bird flu was getting closer and closer, it was found in a swan in Scotland and lots of people started to worry.

In May I had to sit my SATs. We had a week of mocks and then the real things. They weren't too bad but I'm glad I don't have to sit any more for a few years!

During the summer one of the biggest sporting events of the year took place - The Football World Cup. Lots of us had high hopes for England's football team, hopefully they'll do better next time!

Scary school

In September I faced the biggest challenge of my life so far - starting secondary school!

It was very scary as I didn't know anyone but I've settled in really well and have made loads of new friends.

Also in September, the wildlife expert famous for wrestling with crocodiles, Steve Irwin, died after being stung through the heart by a stingray. Lots of people were very upset.

Harry Potter highlight

Recently, in December, we had one bit of bad news and one bit of very exciting news! England's cricketers lost the Ashes after several disappointing Tests. This was a bit upsetting, especially after such a good season last year.

But to make up for it, we know what the new Harry Potter title is! I actually worked it out on JK Rowling's website before I saw it on Newsround!

I wonder what 2007 will bring?"

Anna, 12, Essex

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