FROM the Cat in the Hat to Where's Wally, Colchester's youngsters - with a little help from their parents - pulled out all the stops for World Book Day. 

Photographs came flooding in of children in an array of costumes to celebrate the annual literary event.

As well as donning their favourite characters' outfits, it also aims to encourage children to explore the pleasures of books and reading.

See the gallery above to see a selection of the wonderful photographs from across Colchester.