AN inaugural Yorkshire Children’s Literature Festival has been hailed as a huge success.

More than 65 authors, poets, illustrators, storytellers and animators took part in the event.

Among them were Clare Balding, Sir Chris Hoy, MG Leonard and GP Taylor.

Over 200 schools, including some from Keighley, were also involved.

And the festival attracted more than 5,000 people.

The event – at Broughton Hall, near Skipton, over the weekend – was the brainchild of Oakworth man Trevor Wilson, managing director of Silsden-based Authors Abroad.

He was delighted with the success of the initiative.

“The feedback from the authors themselves was amazing with many saying it was the most enjoyable festival they had ever attended,” he said.

“The smiles on the faces of the children – and adults – spoke volumes too.

“The line-up was strong, considering there had been nothing like this before in the north of England. We had entered uncharted territory. But we are proud of what we achieved.”

Mr Wilson added that it was hoped to hold another, similar festival next year.

TV presenter and best-selling children’s author, Ms Balding, said it was “a privilege” to take part.

“I loved reading as a child – and it was such fun and an honour to convey that love of literature to as many children as I did this weekend.,” she added.

“I was immensely heartened by the positive response I received from so many Yorkshire children, who showed that a love of reading and writing is really flourishing in the county.

“Reading is hugely important when you are young. I think it allows children to escape into alternative worlds but it’s also a really good way of learning about practical and emotional situations.”

The festival included a short story competition, with a winner from each participating school.

There was also a scarecrow trail in the hall grounds.

The event was partnered by the mental health charity, The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust.

It helps train teachers to recognise, and then address, mental health issues in young children such as cyber bullying and peer group pressure.