CHILDREN’S author Lauren Child kicked off the Chipping Norton Literary Festival yesterday, chatting to parents and children and signing books.

The Charlie and Lola creator gave tips on writing and talked about how she came up with the best-selling characters at Chipping Norton Theatre.

Helen Harrison, from Over Norton, near Chipping Norton, was there with her 14-year-old daughter Laura.

She said: “It was entertaining and very interesting.

“She talked about what inspired her to write the books and the difficulties she’s encountered.”

Laura said: “It was really inspiring. She sent a really good message out saying that although it’s good to listen to what comments people give you, you have to trust your instincts.

“It’s given me a lot of ideas for the creative writing I will have to do for my GCSEs.”

The festival will hold events until Sunday. Other talks include Sir Roger Bannister, who will be discussing his memoirs Twin Tracks ahead of the 60th anniversary of his four-minute mile, and Jonathan Aitken, who will talk about his Margaret Thatcher biography and his time in prison for perjury.

For more information, visit chiplitfest.com