THE 20th Children's Book of the Year survey has been launched as part of the first Stockton Book Festival .

The shortlist will be announced during the free festival, which takes place in a marquee on Stockton High Street and in Stockton Central Library, from 10am to 4pm tomorrow (SAT).

About 500 children aged between nine and 12 will then read all the shortlisted books and vote for their winner which will be announced in March 2017.

The festival will also feature a specialist market, including famous children’s authors Ellie Irving and Kes Gray, who will be reading from their books.

Ms Irving won Stockton Children’s Book of the Year 2016 with The Mute Button and she will be offering workshops on poetry and life as an author.

Stockton Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture, councillor Norma Wilburn, said: “The Children’s Book of the Year shortlist features some fantastic authors and books and the children are certain to have a great time reading them.

“Stockton Book Festival is also among the first in the UK to feature live Skype sessions with popular authors and this is a unique opportunity for book lovers to see and hear readings. The festival's packed line-up means there is fun for adults and children alike, including face painting and a chance to meet Tinkerbell, Alice in Wonderland and Horrid Henry. There is even a treasure hunt through Parish Gardens where children can find some rhyming characters.”

For more information on the festival, visit stockton.gov.uk/events