CHARACTERS from children's books have been brought to life in a mural designed to encourage youngsters to read.

Favourites such as Peter Pan, Harry Potter, Kipper and many others are featured in the mural, at the library and information centre in Harrogate.

The work was created by Boomerang Murals, and as part of the project, it ran a competition in which children were asked to paint a picture of their favourite storybook character.

The mural was unveiled by the county council's executive member for libraries, Councillor Carl Les, and the executive member for lifelong learning, Councillor Jim Clark.

They gave prizes to the winners and runners-up in the painting competition, and opened an exhibition of all the entries.

Coun Clark said: "It is so important that children are introduced to books at an early age.

"I am sure that the mural will be enjoyed by visitors to the junior library for many years."

Artist Beverley Barber, of Boomerang Murals, said: "This mural will bring characters to life, and help to develop a life-long interest in literature. I am very pleased with the result, but more importantly, the positive reaction it has received from parents and children alike."