THE pen is mightier than the sword according to a star of the hit BBC series The Musketeers.

Matthew McNulty was at St Andrew's CE Primary School in Over Hulton to add some drama and action to literacy lessons.

The actor was joined by author Hazel Paine who staged a number of special reading and writing workshops for youngsters at the school —who came dressed as their favourite storybook characters.

The two special guests both have children at the school and were said to be only too delighted to support the event to develop a love of books and reading amongst youngsters.

Matthew is best known for playing Lucien Grimaud in the series, which starred Peter Capaldi

Headteacher Simon Charnock said: "We are lucky to have talented parents who are so supportive of the school.

"The children and staff looked fabulous dressed up and we invited two parents in."

He added: "Matthew read to the children which they really enjoyed. They were really captivated by what he was reading, it was so lovely to see. Matthew actually has his own Youtube challenge where he reads aloud books for children."

Thanks to Hazel's creative flair, children came away learning that reading is just as important as eating and shared many of the same characteristics.

Mr Charnock said:"She showed how reading could set up for the day, and how everyone has different tastes in reading."

As well celebrating everything about books, the day was also designed to further literacy in the school by developing children's listening and hearing skills as well as their analytical skills.

Mr Charnock is hoping to invite the two back later this year as the school stages special poetry workshops.

He said: "The children were talking about World Book Day when they came into school on Monday."