CHILDREN raided the fancy dress box to become their favourite fictional characters at an event held to celebrate books.

The 80 children went to Dimples Day Nursery, Green Street Green Road, Dartford, dressed as characters such as Goldilocks and Little Red Riding Hood.

The youngsters, aged between three months and five years, enjoyed storytelling sessions throughout the day.

Thirty-five teachers took turns to read books such as the Three Little Pigs and Postman Pat.

The event was organised to celebrate World Book Day, which is held to encourage reading.

Nursery manager Sandra Roles, who dressed up as Batman, says the day was a huge success.

She said: "The event is an excellent way of showing the children books are something to be loved and respected.

"The costumes were fantastic.

Everyone put in a lot of effort."