A CELEBRITY children's author and illustrator helped Oxford pupils to get excited ahead of World Book Day.

The annual celebration of all things books and reading takes place today, and many Oxfordshire schools have asked pupils to dress up as their favourite book character.

Among them is St Francis CE Primary School in Cowley, which also welcomed author Lauren Child yesterday to talk to pupils about writing.

The writer is well-known for book series including Charlie and Lola, Clarice Bean series and Ruby Redfort.

Teacher Laura Ray said: "We were all extremely excited and very lucky to welcome Lauren Child into our school.

"It was an amazing opportunity for our children to meet such an inspirational author. Lauren's visit will further encourage our pupils' love of reading."

The school held a competition inviting children to submit a question to ask their special visitor, winning a book, and also enjoyed an assembly with her.

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