HAVE you been busy putting the finishing touches to your child's World Book Day outfit before taking them to school or nursery this morning?

The annual celebration of authors, illustrators and reading is marked in more than 100 countries around the world.

Youngsters across Chester, Ellesmere Port, Neston, Frodsham and Helsby will dress up as characters, receive book tokens and take part in the events run by schools and community groups.

Chester and District Standard:

Daisy Perryman, four.

Teachers are also encouraged to don fancy dress costumes and join in.

The aim is to encourage children to pick up a book and while also giving them the opportunity to own a book of their own.