Children can let their imaginations run wild at a book festival.

The Redbridge Children's StoryFest will take place across the borough in the autumn half term, from October 22 to 27.

Now in its third year, it is supported by a grant from the National Lottery.

Aimed at children aged 3 to 11, 24 storytelling and children’s theatre sessions will take place throughout the week at the Kenneth More Theatre, Valentine’s Mansion, Redbridge Drama Centre and Wanstead House. Most of these sessions are free of charge. The others cost up to £2.50.

Ithere will be a visit from the World’s favourite bear Paddington, a return trip from the Wimpy Kid Show, Dennis The Menace up to more mischief, the madcap interactive adventures of Wizard Stories, tales from Asia, the Caribbean and Ireland – as well as visits from some of the best children’s theatre companies in the country. All this and much, much more!

Lee Thompson, organiser of the festival said: “Now in its third year StoryFest is organised by the Redbridge Children’s Literary Festival, a registered charity, and we are very grateful for the support of the National Lottery. We have over 2500 places on offer for children to witness the magic of storytelling and children’s theatre. All of the sessions are interactive and encourage the children to participate and contribute—it’s a lovely thing to see!”

“This is the first year the Festival has gone to venues outside of the Kenneth More Theatre and we are very excited about this. Our ambition is to make Redbridge Children’s StoryFest one of the biggest Storytelling Festivals in the country.

“A great, and cheap, way to entertain the children during the half term and have them experience some really magical moments. I have always believed that children should be encouraged to grow and nurture their imagination through books and reading and the festival encourages this.”

Tickets are currently available and must be booked in advance.

Further details can be found on the Festival website www.redbridgestoryfest.org