SCHOOLCHILDREN across West Somerset celebrated the written word by taking part in World Book Day.

The international initiative to encourage reading and a love of all things literary saw youngsters mark the event in a variety of ways.

At Exford First School, the special day had a bedtime theme, with all 28 pupils and four staff coming to school in their pyjamas.

Bedtime was also on the timetable at Porlock's St Dubricius First School where 'onesies' or PJs were also dress code for the day.

Meanwhile, pupils at Danesfield Middle School stepped back in time to celebrate the lives of a host of historical characters.

Youngsters at Crowcombe and Stogumber federated primary schools took the celebration one step further.

...they also took part in a range of linked activities.

At Old Cleeve First School where pupils and staff dressed as their favourite book character and teachers swapped classes to read their favourite children's book.

A week of literary themed activities were on the timetable for children at Dunster First School.

At St Peter's First School in Williton, a host of book related activities kept pupils busy.

Timberscombe First School headteacher Marcus Capel led the way in the dressing up stakes, taking on the role of a banana.

At West Somerset College in Minehead, World Book Day celebrations were not limited to the staff and students in the main school.

Youngsters at the Acorns Nursery and Pre-School also got into the spirit of the event.

Full report and more pictures in the Free Press.