CHILDREN AT Newport Primary School had a real treat yesterday as popular children’s author Charley James helped to launch their book festival.

Charley, who takes her pen name from the names of her own children, shared some of the secrets of her work with youngsters throughout the school.

The aim of the festival is to celebrate children’s enthusiasm for books and further develop good reading habits.

Throughout next week the school will host visiting actors, storytellers, poets, authors and illustrators, and next Friday there will be a grand parade where the children can dress up as their favourite character from a book.

Pupils will be issued with special tokens for World Book Day on Thursday, March 1, and the school is open to the community throughout the coming week, with anyone interested in the activities welcome to drop in.