Ref. 29382-03SWINDON schools celebrated World Book Day with fairy tales, fancy dress and Harry Potter.

Four to 10-year-olds at Lainesmead Infants' School, in Old Walcot, dressed up as characters from their favourite book yesterday and held special story time sessions.

Teacher Charlotte Vardy entered the spirit with a costume imitating a fairy called Felicity Wishes, who makes dreams come true in a book by Emma Thompson.

Jaye Tuck, six, dressed up as Batman and enjoyed reading lots of books.

He said: "We have had a really good time reading and listening to stories."

Hannah Mason, seven, transformed herself into Snow White.

She said: "We had a special assembly with prizes. I've had a great time."

Students at Hreod Parkway School, in Akers Way, took part in a host of literary activities to mark the occasion.

Besides taking it in turns to read Harry Potter books throughout the day, the 11 to 16-year-olds also produced a book called the Second Book of Hreod. The book featured poems, jokes and articles on what students like doing.

English teacher Clare Weatherall said: "It has been a fun day, which really galvanised our pupils to get involved with books."

Children at Wanborough Primary School, in Beanlands, also dressed up for the festivities.

Head teacher Stewart Smith said: "Our students certainly looked very colourful on their way in to school. We also held extra reading classes."