YOUNGSTERS dressed up as their favourite literary characters to mark World Book Day.

The annual event aims to inspire a love of reading in children of all ages, with schools and nurseries taking part each year.

At Montgomery Junior School, Colchester, there were Harry Potters, Gangster Grannies, a Fantastic Mr Fox and many more favourite children’s characters.

Reading lead Hannah Smith said: “The range of costumes and characters has been phenomenal and we are so impressed by the efforts made by everyone.

“The children are also taking part in a Book Bingo competition during which they have to achieve at least six Reading challenges to receive a prize at the end of term.

“The enthusiasm has been amazing. It is exciting to think we are joining in the celebration of reading with so many other countries round the world.”

In Langham, Eloise Aitchison and Vicki Fletcher joined their Storytime and Little City groups together for a Three Little Pigs story session. Around 50 pre-school youngsters attended the event.

Eloise said: “It went really well and we will do it again in future.”

Look out for an eight page World Book Day supplement in Wednesday’s Gazette.