CHILDREN from Abbots Ripton Primary School were well and truly prepared for World Book Day last week (Thursday), following a visit from a top children’s author.

CHILDREN across Huntingdonshire were proving reading is not just for book worms in a series of activities marking World Book Day and World Book Night.

Pupils at Abbots Ripton Primary School were visited by children’s author, Pete Johnson, whose books include How to Train Your Parents and Help! I’m a Classroom Gambler.

He dropped in to share tips on how to become a top writer. Children got to quiz him about his life and experiences. Winners of the school’s writing competition, judged by the school council, were also given a writing master class by Mr Johnson.

Headteacher, Helen Wilman, said: “The children wrote some interesting stories with all sorts of themes.

“Their work showed how inspired they were to have the opportunity to showcase their literacy skills to a well-established author.”

At St Peter’s School, more than 20 pupils took part in a sleep-over in the library on Friday night to celebrate World Book Night. The evening began with a murder mystery game involving children and parents.

It was followed with a quiz and story-telling session. The event was organised by librarian Debbie Trafford.

School spokesman Julie Robson said: “It went really well. We had some really good feedback from the students.”

At Wyton on the Hill Primary School the classes were filled with colourful characters straight from the story books.

Scooby Doo, Little Red Riding Hood, Dick Whittinton, Buzz Lightyear, Harry Potter and Cruella Deville were among the fictional heroes brought to life by the children in costume.

The day also saw the children start a literacy wall, with each pupil encouraged to contribute a paper brick, describing their favourite books.

Teacher Melodie Woodcock said: “The day went extremely well and we discussed our love for books and how we should share it with everyone. Work the children did on the day is being displayed in the school library.”

There was a book give-away at Abbey College, with 48 copies of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel Spark presented to Year 9 students.

The presentation was organised by Sue Wallis on behalf of Fen Readers Book Club which is part of Ramsey St Mary’s WI.

Jacqui Harris, director of learning for English at Abbey College, said: “We were delighted when we were contacted by Fen Readers suggesting their generous gift. Hopefully this is the start of a link with the book club as the members have so much literary knowledge and love of books which could help to inspire our students.”