FITTINGLY given its impending move to Undershaw, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s former home, some pupils at Stepping Stones School, Hindhead, chose to appear as Sherlock Holmes on World Book Day, last Thursday.

The famous sleuth rubbed shoulders with Willy Wonka, Harry Potter and the Ugly Sisters at the dress-up day to celebrate students and staff members’ favourite fictional characters.

The day kicked off with a fashion show and story-sharing, followed by games and quizzes in keeping with the literary theme.

Leading light, English teacher Lisa Osborn Lea, had written to comedian David Walliams, who has written several top-selling children’s books, inviting him to drop in for the event.

Sadly, the Britain’s Got Talent judge was unable to appear in person, but pupils were treated to a film of him reading his popular Gangsta Granny book, screened in the school hall.

The fun continued with students warned that “light-fingered” assistant head teacher Phil Thompson – aka Gangsta Granny – would be on the prowl throughout the day.

Further highlights were a “Guess the Words in the Recipe Cake” puzzle and a display of photos of children reading in unusual places.

In the final quiz of the day, pupils competed in an inter-house competition to match a list of quotes to the right book and author.

Headteacher Melisa Farnham – aka The Queen of Hearts – said: “ It was wonderful to see both staff and students embrace the day – there was no need for any shouting of ‘Off with their heads’.

“I am very proud of the students we have here, and how they actively took part in such a dynamic day that was led so positively by committed, encouraging staff.”