Bookworms were out in force for the 17th annual Ashwell Book Weekend in the village church.

Children’s author and illustrator Angela Patchett was a special guest again this year at the medieval St Mary’s Church.

Angela – whose books include Angela Angel and the Magic Chair, Misty Bear, Wishing and Paws – had her latest book, The Magic Dolls’ House, published just days before the fair.

She read from some of her books to an excited audience of children who also had a go on her magic harp and were able to cuddle her teddies.

Organiser Karen Rogers said: “It was very well attended again this year with nearly 400 people over the two days.

“We had hundreds of books of all types that were donated over five days beforehand and sorted by a fantastic band of volunteers.”

She added that the weekend was a great success and the amount raised was more than £2,400 to go towards the Church Restoration Fund.