AWARD-winning author Alex McCall and his feathered friend Clucky flew into St Enoch Centre as the shopping mall's first literacy festival got under way.

Story Fest, which is aimed at young people ranging from tots to teens, runs until Sunday.

The festival, which is supported by Glasgow Libraries, aims to show how much fun can be had by using the power of imagination, a good book and creative thinking,

The programme offers young people the opportunity to engage in dozens of exciting free events including author appearances, creative workshops and visits by some of best loved characters in children’s fiction.

The centre welcomed Alex McCall, award-winning author of Attack of the Giant Robot Chickens.

Book fans can also create Monsters and Baddies with comic artist John Fardell or go on an adventure with Badger the Mystical Mutt. There will also be a chance to create a comic strip and learn to rap with Glasgow’s own hip hop star, Loki.

Bounce and Rhyme sessions, devised to enable parents and carers to develop their babies’ speech, language and communication through action songs, rhymes and stories, will offer the youngest Glaswegians the chance to engage in the festival activities. An interactive puppet show -“I hate books!” – will also bring well known stories to life for little ones.

Councillor Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow Life, said: “Libraries are very often at the heart of communities, but we wanted to go the extra mile and bring the magic of our libraries, and the wonder of books, out to the people of Glasgow.

“I’m delighted that Glasgow Life is able to support this fantastic, innovative storytelling festival, and hope that young people across the city are inspired to get involved with reading, writing and storytelling through these engaging activities.

“I would urge all parents to bring their families down to St. Enoch Centre’s Story Fest this week to discover the magical world of books.”

Children can borrow books from an on-site pop up library available to shoppers throughout the holiday week. An idyllic picket-fenced festival site, complete with astro-turf lawn, will provide young readers with a tranquil indoor garden in which to relax and enjoy a good book.

Anne Ledgerwood, general manager of St Enoch Centre, said: “We’re thrilled that Glasgow Libraries has joined with us to support Story Fest. Together we aim to inspire and excite children about reading and books; there’s nothing better than seeing a child glued to a book or listening raptly to a story being read aloud.

“With top authors, character visits, a puppet show and Bounce and Rhyme sessions, we have a fantastic line up and I hope families enjoy taking part in our events.”

The festival runs throughout the Glasgow school mid-term holidays. All events are free but some are ticketed and must be booked in advance.