ANYONE travelling in to Cerne Abbas could be forgiven for thinking the local school had been transformed into a fairytale.

But the wizards, princesses and superheroes who had gathered to celebrate their love of reading were just pupils dressed up in some very well-made costumes.

Children from Cerne Abbas CE First School ended a week-long celebration of the written word with a fancy dress day as characters from their favourite books.

Acting headteacher David Vann, who was dressed as He-Man, said: “The Love of Reading week has been a celebration of reading and encouraging the children to be confident when they’re trying to learn to read. At Cerne Abbas School, those pupils who are confident have a very high standard of reading.”

Love of Reading Week included a visit by a professional storyteller and pupils writing their own imaginative tales.

They learnt about ‘super stories’ and ‘cracking characters’ to see what makes a story interesting and enjoyable.

Classes also mixed up so that older pupils helped younger ones discover the joy of reading. Abbey Class pupil Archer, aged nine, pictured top right, said: “I like books about outer space and I read about five times a week.

“My favourite book which I have brought in today is Halo: Ghosts of Onyx.

“It is one in a series about humans trying to defend Earth from aliens, but it’s the first one I’ve read so I’m looking forward to reading the rest.”

‘excellent’ report THE Cerne Abbas First School building is believed to be the oldest school building still in use in Dorset and was built in 1844 as a National School.

The school has three classes with names relating to the well-know history of Cerne Abbas – Giant, Trendle and Abbey.

To celebrate the Olympics last July, the school with parents and villagers climbed to the top of the Cerne Abbas Giant and created a giant torch out of his club.

Cerne Abbas is an eco-school and has a spiritual garden and close ties with the local church. At its last Ofsted inspection it was given an ‘excellent’ report.