THERE were dozens of princesses, a Ron Weasley, Gangster Granny, a Willy Wonka and even a few Where’s Wally characters wandering around yesterday as schools across south Essex celebrated World Book Day.

Many schools allowed their children to come in to class dressed as their favourite book characters, meaning classrooms were packed with colourful costumes and wigs, while other schools held cake sales and read their favourite books.

At Cornelius Vermuyden School, on Canvey, children’s author Roy Apps, gave talks about his work, signed books and gave workshops on creative writing to delighted pupils.

A school spokesman said: "We really made a buzz this year for World Book Day with lots of activities, stalls and a visiting speaker.

"We had Roy Apps, BAFTA award winner for children’s film and television, as well as an author of over 80 children’s books.

"Roy gave a series of talks and workshops on being a writer and creative writing skills.

"The author also sold signed copies of his ‘Dream to Win’ collection of books, a series about obstacles, challenges and tough decisions faced by some of the world’s most successful sportsmen and sportswomen.

"We also had a book themed cake sale and a sponsored Readathon in aid of Youngminds, mental health and wellbeing charity.

"Teachers played their part too, with a ‘Guess the Character” quiz, as well as reading extracts in class from their favourite books.

"We are incredibly proud of our pupils and staff who have made World Book Day a great success and promoted the importance of literacy and a love of reading."

At Twizzle Tops Nursery, in Basildon, children dressed up and enjoyed a party.

Pupils also got into character at Cherry Tree Primary School in Basildon,

A school spokesman said: "The children were each asked to dress up as a character from one of their class key author books as part of Cherry Tree’s World Book Day celebrations.

"Each year group covers three author studies each year.

"During the day, the children completed fun and exciting activities based around the key authors.

"The school’s  Catering Team joined in too and created a Roald Dahl themed school lunch menu!"

Dozens of children and staff got dressed up into their best fancy dress costumes to celebrate the day at Porters Grange Primary School in Southend.

At Richmond Avenue Primary School, in Shoebury, staff dressed as children's puzzle book character, Where's Wally, while students were given the opportunity to come to school dressed as their fictional heroes.

A school spokesman said: "Highly-creative, home-made costumes ranged from a white rabbit that featured in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland to a kitchen utensil-inspired Saucepan Man found in Enid Blyton's classic novel, 'The Faraway Tree'.

"Pupils were also invited to choose who they thought the genuine Where's Wally was, and were rewarded with a special 30th Anniversary Edition of the puzzle book."

At Leigh Road Baptist Church fancy dress was the order of the day. Diane Allmark, LRBC Pre-school Manager said:  “World Book Day is a highlight of our calendar at Leigh Road Baptist Church Pre-school.

"It was a delight to see all the children and staff dressed up as their favourite characters; from little Oompa Loompa’s in Roald Dahl’s classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to the Cat in the Hat by Dr Seuss.

"This fun day also raised over £50 for Crackerjack Children’s Trust who provide resources and support for children with disabilities.”

Southend Hospital staff also got into the party spirit on the Neptune Children’s Ward, with costumes and book readings, while Woodham Ley Primary School in Benfleet held a parade for their costumed pupils.

Other schools, including the Winter Gardens Academy, on Canvey, and Friars Primary School in Shoebury, will dress up today to celebrate.

Go to echonews.co.uk to see more photos.