HUNDREDS of Hampshire's Brownies participated in "The Biggest Sleepover in the World" to celebrate the publication of Jacqueline Wilson's new book.

More than 250 Hampshire Brownies took part in the event, which spanned four Hampshire libraries in celebration of the recent publication of Jacqueline Wilson’s new children’s book ‘The Best Sleepover in the World’.

The exclusive sleepovers which took place on Saturday, October 28, were arranged following an approach by the publisher Puffin.

The idea was inspired by a sleepover event organised by Hampshire Libraries in 2019 to help Brownies and Girl Guides earn a library-themed badge.

When Jacqueline Wilson’s latest book was published, Puffin Books contacted Hampshire Libraries about celebrating the launch with a similar event.

The Brownies taking part enjoyed an evening of fun-packed activities, including making dreamcatchers and friendships bracelets, as well as learning Makaton signs – before curling up in their sleeping bags for a night among the bookshelves at Hythe, Romsey, Hedge End and Chandler’s Ford libraries.

Hampshire County Council’s executive member for education, Cllr Steve Forster, said: "This special sleepover in our libraries has given the girls an opportunity to engage in entertaining and imaginative activities in an inspiring setting.

"I’m delighted that Hampshire Libraries was chosen to host this event because these unique experiences help foster a love of books and reading that lasts a lifetime.

"Encouraging reading can have far-reaching benefits for a child’s present and future.

"Not only does reading help children improve their language and academic skills, but it also helps with personal and emotional development."

Author Jacqueline said: "I’m thrilled that the Hampshire Libraries Service has organised splendid sleepovers in four different libraries for so many Brownies in the county.

"I hope everyone had the best sleepover in the world, just like the girls in my book."

Any children who want to experience the special library atmosphere out-of-hours can do so at one of the upcoming ‘Night at the Library!’ events at:

Hythe Library, on Thursday, November 30, from 4pm to 7pm, or Chandler’s Ford Library, on Tuesday, December 5, from 4pm to 7pm.

These free events are for children aged sxi-11 and their families.

Each one begins with drinks and snacks, before a creative adventure in the library with stories, singing, games and art. To book a place visit the libraries’ website.