LIBRARIES across Thurrock brought stories to life yesterday (Thursday 6 March) as they celebrated World Book Day with a range of fun, book-themed activities.

Across the borough, libraries hosted story times, arts and crafts, and staff joined in the dress-up fun.

At Tilbury Library, pupils from St Mary's Catholic School joined in the celebrations, dressed as some of their favourite book characters.

East Tilbury Library and Blackshots Library held special story times and Grays Library ran a full day of activities, including a Rhyme Time session, Bluey-themed colouring and activities, and an exciting Monster story time with bookmark-making to round off the day.

Cllr Valerie Morris-Cook, Cabinet member for Community Partnerships, said: "I love when World Book Day comes around and I've been very impressed with some of the costumes I've seen from pupils making their way to school, and of course those worn by our wonderful library team.

"Our libraries are always hosting such fun activities for people of all ages so I would really encourage people to have a look at what they've got planned. My grandchildren love to have stories read to them so I will have to bring them down to a storytime session and find some books that I can take out to read to them myself."

People who live, work or study in Thurrock can become a Thurrock library member at any age for free. Applications to join a library can be made online.

If you have a £1 World Book Day book token, make sure to pick up a new story to enjoy before Sunday 23 March.

For more information on joining your local library or upcoming events, visit thurrock.gov.uk/libraries

ENDS