BOOKWORMS turned new chapters at their Wyre Forest schools when they dressed to impress as their favourite characters for World Book Day.

The Three Little Pigs, Cinderella and Harry Potter were brought to life by youngsters as they marked the national event, last Thursday, which aims to encourage children to enjoy reading.

At Holy Trinity International School, pupils took part in workshops and activities including a costume parade around the school and created their own recipe book.

Jon Brunt, head of prep, said: “World Book Day offers the opportunity to explore and celebrate literature and participate in a range of educational activity workshops.

“Parading around the school is always popular with the younger pupils as it provides them with the opportunity to show off their wonderful costumes. Staff also joined in the parade, so it’s always a great deal of fun and something the children remember with much affection.”

He added the youngsters also took snaps of themselves reading books in an usual place to mark the event.

Bookworms also turned a page at Birchen Coppice Primary School after a housebuilding firm donated £50 worth of books.

Taylor Wimpey, which is building new homes at its Stour Valley development in Kidderminster, gave the books to staff and pupils.

Rachel Higgins, acting headteacher, said: “This generous donation from Taylor Wimpey means we can add to the books on offer in our school library, which is great news for young readers.”

Elaine Taylor, regional sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey, added: “We hope this will encourage the children to develop a real passion for reading and that they will carry this love of books into adulthood.”

Characters also came to life at Foley Park Community Primary School where pupils showed their passion for reading by dressing up.

The youngsters came as characters from their favourite books and a parade was held in the school hall.

Kathryn Sugars, headteacher, said: “We’re delighted that every child dressed up.

“Promoting reading is a major priority for our school and this shows our children understand the opportunities and enjoyment that being a confident reader can bring.”

Meanwhile, of pupils and teachers at Franche Primary school also donned costumes.

Roald Dahl characters including Willy Wonka, the oompah-loompahs, and Sophie from the BFG, joined the Mad Hatter, Dr Seuss characters, Tracey Beaker, superheroes and princesses.

Teachers got in on the act and visitors were greeted by administrative staff in boiler suits and goggles recreating the team from Ghostbusters.

Older children embarked on a story safari, visiting the classes of younger children to tell their favourite tales.

Classes also enjoyed literacy games and reviewed and dis - cussed their favourite books.

Tabitha Smith, lead teacher for literacy said: “The children understand the fun and enjoyment that books provide and we all love World Book Day. Our motto is read, read and read some more.”