A PART of the Lanes Shopping Centre has been transformed into a scene from a popular children’s book for some half term Easter fun.

A number of Storytime Sessions to keep the kids entertained during the fortnight-long break were held in the centre on Thursday, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s 1865 book, Alice In Wonderland.

Four magical-inspired readings were held at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm in the vacant unit next to the Schuh store on Grape Lane, with the young attendees having the chance to dress up and hear the tales of Alice’s adventures in Wonderland.

With some inspiration from the fantasy world located down the rabbit hole, the unit became a spring-themed family fun oasis.

The event formed part of a range of the ‘Mad as a Hatter’ themed Easter activities taking place during the half term break at the centre.

Three activities have already been held between Tuesday and Thursday, and with another week left until the return to school, a further three are set to take place on the same days next week.

On Tuesday, there will be a chance to create a Mad Hatter hat with local business, the Artventurers.

Then on Wednesday, activity group Iced Gem will host a Mad Hatter tea party, with the opportunity to make your own potion.

After some time in Wonderland last week, all is not lost for those who missed the first Storytelling day, with another chance to pop along and get involved.

A further event is to be held in the same vacant unit at the shopping centre next Thursday, April 11.

It will start at 11am and will run until 3pm.

Each of the activities at the shopping centre are offered on a first come, first served basis.

Jennifer Notman, founder and lead entertainer of children’s entertainment company, Rainbow Jelly Productions, said: “We had a wonderful day in Wonderland.

“The children were transported into an imaginary world filled with talking flowers, dancing tea pots and a giant unbirthday cake.

“They even had the chance to explore Wonderland and drink rainbow tea with Alice.”

Children and their families also created their own party hats and magical tea parties in the play area.

Jennifer added: “The atmosphere was happy, playful and magical.

“We had a brilliant time and hope that everyone who joined us did too. We can’t wait to do it all again next week.”