STORIES of magic, giants and witches were brought to life to celebrate what would have been Roald Dahl's 100th birthday.

Pupils at Blackshaw Primary School in Breightmet dressed up as their favourite fictional characters in a fabulous tribute to the author, who died in 1990.

From Matilda to The BFG, to Fantastic Mr Fox and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, no book was left unturned.

The day was part of a national initiative to celebrate Roald Dahl Day and to encourage children to read.

Amanda Dunkerley, literacy co-ordinator, at Blackshaw, said: "There has been a big national party to celebrate Roald Dahl.

"All our classes took a different novel and took part in different activities to do with their book.

"The children reading BFG have been making dream jars and Year Six have been making chocolate cakes like in Matilda.

"We want to encourage reading and the love of reading.

"It's been really nice to see the children reading and carrying their books around,

"Roald Dahl's books are so friendly and full of fun and it has been a really good way to start the school year.

"We have had some great costumes, a Violet Boulevard, lots of Oompa Lumpas and Mr Twits.

"There is a national problem with reading so it is good to get the children involved."

Ffion Marshall, aged eight, was dressed as her favourite character, Matilda.

She said: "I like when Matilda puts the newt in Miss Trunchball's water."

Amie Maguire, aged seven, said: "Oompa Loompa's are my favourite characters and I like the songs that they sing."

On top of the days celebrations children also enjoyed a live 'draw with Quentin Blake' and also watched a live performance of Matilda online.

Gina Faulkner, teaching and special needs assistant said: "They have loved it and really got in the spirit of it all.

"I think it really helps them relate to the books to get dressed up as their favourite characters."