STORY-TELLING round the campfire, a theatrical puppet show and tales of climbing 300 trees were among the attractions at the Festival of Literature children and families day this weekend.

Held at Lower Shaw Farm, families gathered for the day-long event filled with authors and activities.

The esteemed line-up included Jack Cooke, author of the Tree Climber’s Guide, spoon puppet making with Vicky Hirsch, dressing up and an awe-inspiring telling of the Tin Forest by PuppetCraft.

A more unusual activity came from tree enthusiast Jack Cooke who, once he had finished his talk, invited the crowd to climb Lower Shaw Farm’s Horse Chestnut Tree with him.

The day is part of the Swindon Festival of Literature which has been running since May 1.

With a treasure hunt, talking with the animals and a story walk it was a day packed full of activity to celebrate the half-way point of the festival.

Festival organiser Matt Holland said he was thrilled with the response to the 24th Festival of Literature.

He said: “I am just full of delight. I feel like a chef who has cooked a meal every day who can see people eating it and enjoying it.

“When people are asking lots of question and especially children of all ages are wanting to ask questions that’s when you know it has been a great success

“People engage and enjoy when they are learning something, that is what the festival is about every year, learning something new.

“I am delighted with how it has gone so far, it has had the biggest buzz of any literature festival so far and guests are really enjoying the diversity of subjects we have talks on this year.

“The festival prides itself on not only providing entertainment inside but taking the community outside and enjoying the joy of the outdoors, especially the children. There really is something for everyone here.”