Gangsta Granny, Willy Wonka and Stick Man were among the many storybook heroes who turned up to school to celebrate their love of reading today.

Pupils and staff at The Grange Monmouth Preparatory School turned up to lessons dressed as their favourite characters from children’s literature to mark World Book Day.

Prizes for the best outfits brought out the boys’ competitive side.

Tom took the number one spot in Prep I with his Charlie Bucket getup, Ezra was Prep II’s winner with his Willy Wonka costume, Stick Man, aka William, rose to the top in Prep III and William was the victor in Prep IV, dressed as The Scarecrow.

Kate Kirman, Deputy Head of The Grange, said: “The pupils all chose their favourite character to dress up as and brought in the book to share in lessons.

“They all put a lot of thought and effort into their costume designs.

“Bringing the characters in their favourite books alive will further develop their enjoyment of reading.”