YOUNGSTERS around the Cotswolds dressed up as dragons, tigers, superheroes and even a pirate to celebrate World Book Day.

Walkers Day Nursery, in Moreton, welcomed Richard Kemp, who owns Christmas Birds and Books, to the nursery for a story session last week and read their favourite story, Shark in the Park.

Mr Kemp visited many primary schools last week including Longborough, Kitebrook and St David's in Moreton and read to the children.

Caroline Koenig, nursery owner, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for the children to meet Richard and form good links with the book shop which provides good community engagement for all ages”.

Over the county boarder, youngsters and staff at Winchcombe Farm Day Nursery, in Upper Tysoe, dressed up as dragons, tigers, princesses and knights as part of the celebrations.

Rachel Giorgio, Winchcombe Farm Day Nursery manager, said: "Our event was a fun way to get our children’s imaginations fired up and encourage them to be avid readers.”

Meanwhile, students at the Cotswold School in Bourton were visited by Red Dwarf actor, presenter and comedian, Robert Llewellyn as part of the school’s annual Book Week celebrations.

And they were even treated to a preview of a £75,000 luxury electric car, which the actor brought along.

An electric vehicle enthusiast, Mr Llewellyn spoke to students about the future of energy, sustainability and the potential of battery technology.

Tim Redding, Head of Science, said: ‘It was great to be able to have a speaker like Robert Llewellyn visit the school and to see Tesla’s magnificent car first-hand."