SCHOOLS were filled with wacky and wonderful literary characters as staff and students dressed up to mark a huge book day.

Minions, Oompa Loompas and a spectacular Fantastic Mr Fox were spotted roaming corridors as schools got into the spirit of World Book Day.

Schools across Clacton, Frinton and Walton all joined in the fun by holding dress-up days to mark the occasion, which is aimed at encouraging everyone to get reading.

Frinton headteacher Mandy Barlow said: “It’s been fantastic to see so many of the children come in with costumes, and to see how much effort has gone into them.

“We love seeing the children really engaging with books and picking out their favourite characters.”

Pick up the Clacton and Frinton Gazette for the full story and a big spread of pictures from the day.