IT was all smiles at a workshop at Bingham Library in Cirencester on Thursday as children got the chance to meet one of their favourite authors.

Children's author, Faye Hanson led the workshop for little ones aged four to nine, where she spoke about her picture book, The Wonder.

The youngsters  also  took part in drawing exercises and listened to readings.

And those that attended the event which was held as part of Cirencester Children's Lit Fest, a literary festival for children and their families, said they had the most wonderful time.

Bessie Taylor, who attends Stratton Primary School, said: “I really enjoyed it. I think the drawings were really beautiful and I like the detail in them. ”

She added her favourite part of the workshop was drawing a picture of herself flying home from the library.

Her mother Ali said  that it was great that the children could meet Faye and take part in activities.

She said:  “When I was younger you didn't have that access. To have it now is inspiring for the children. ”

Kitty Luck, celebrated being four and a half at the workshop.

She attends Powell Primary School in Cirencester and said reading The Wonder reminder her of being at school.

The Cirencester Children's Lit Fest is funded by the Bingham Library Trust and organised by Gloucestershire Library Service and Octavia’s Bookshop, is taking place till Saturday.

As part of the festival there have been events for all ages, including readings from Ian Whybrow, author of the famous Harry and his Bucketful of Dinosaurs.

There has also been a  workshop at Octavia's Bookshop by acclaimed illustrator Emily Gravett, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of her prize-winner debut, Wolves, which included a special drawing event and competition.

Owner of the bookshop,  Octavia Karavla, said the festival has been a great success.

She said: “This is our second year of running it and it gets more successful every year.

“ It has been highly successful and there has been lots of sell out events. Every year more people get more aware of it. This year tickets sales have been really high.”

Children attending some of the events have been invited to take part in an artwork competition . The winning artwork will be displayed at a special opening of Bingham Art Gallery on Saturday between 10am and 2pm.

The Festival finishes on Saturday. For more visit www.facebook.com and search for Cirencester Lit Fest15.