FIFTY years on from when Eric Carle published The Very Hungry Caterpillar, it is still much loved by children across the world.

And on Thursday last week youngsters and staff at Longparish Little School hosted a special celebration to mark its birthday.

The book tells the tale of a caterpillar who loves eating so much that as soon as hatches he begins to eat.

And food played a part in the occasion with the children treated to a cake shaped like the insect and caterpillar kebabs made out of a variety of fruit.

There was also a visit from Merry-go-Round Storytelling, with Amanda Kane-Smith and Fred the cat re-enacting the book, which was loved by the children.

The day was even more special for the youngsters as they currently have caterpillars at the school.

Deputy manager Christie Lambert said: “They loved it because we have got live caterpillars here at the moment. They can see the life cycle happening alongside the book.”

Speaking about The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Christie added: “It is a brilliant story to promote healthy eating and looking after yourself and nature.”

The children also got creative and made headbands resembling caterpillars and butterflies to wear during the day.