Young storytellers in Ilminster impressed audiences with imaginative speeches about their favourite book characters during a public speaking competition.
The Young Voices Public Speaking final, held at Herne View Primary School, brought together pupils from nine schools across the area.
Open to children from reception to year five, the competition challenged participants to speak for two minutes on the topic: 'If I couldbe any book character for the day, I would choose…'
Edward Wells of Ilminster Rotary, which supports the event in partnership with Herne View Primary, said: "For many years, the Rotary Club of Ilminster has been running a public speaking competition hosted by the old Swanmead Middle School and latterly by Herne View Primary School for the older pupils of a great many local primary schools.
"The standard of the presentations is always amazing.
"When Claire Oaten, the headteacher of then-Greenfylde First School, suggested a competition for the youngest pupils as well, the Club agreed to help without any hesitation.
“Young Voices has become a highlight of the year with several schools sending intrepid young people to stand up and speak to a room full of strangers in a way that can only inspire and move everyone lucky enough to see and hear them.
"Long may it continue."
Pupils spoke confidently about characters including the BFG, Hermione Granger, and a Womble.
A total of 177 children took part across the schools, developing their oracy skills through internal rounds before the final.
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