A MUCH-LOVED children’s book about a colourful elephant was celebrated by pupils at a Basingstoke nursery.

Youngsters from Kiddi Caru, in Beggarwood, enjoyed a week of activities based on Elmer the elephant.

The original Elmer book was published in 1968, establishing the main character’s cheerful and optimistic personality traits and now famous multi-coloured patchwork pattern.

Stories explored themes relating to diversity, with Elmer discovering that when he tries to change his appearance in order to ‘blend in’ with the other elephants, they no longer recognise him, or accept him as one of their own.

Throughout the week the children made Elmer masks, took part in Elmer themed junk modelling, made elephant shaped biscuits and read different Elmer books.

The week culminated in the children wearing their brightest and most colourful clothes to form a giant Elmer in the nursery’s garden.

Suzanne Chilvers, nursery manager, said: “Elmer is one of those characters that children have loved for generations.

“He has a wonderful personality and the stories really capture their imaginations.

“This is an incredibly positive message for children of all ages.”