A SNOWMAN, househog and lamb will melt the hearts of those looking at the Waterstones’ bookshop window in Chelmsford, this Christmas.

Darcy, the Magical Snowman, Harold Huxley and Lamb are all lovable characters from the books of popular children’s author and illustrator Emma R McNally, who has been invited to put them on display at Waterstones during the festivities.

It is the first time tthe bookstore has hosted the characters of a local writer.

Emma of Great Baddow, who made a special YouTube Video of her book The Cloudosaurus Rex for this year’s World Book Day, said: “Waterstones have been such an amazing support to me and my work.

"We share a mutual passion for reading and encouraging children to develop a love of books; a door way to their future potential.

"When children see the characters from my books in real life, it really helps feed their imagination.”

Emma will be popping into the store to sign books between 10.30am and 3pm on December 10 and 17.

Sarah Whybrow, manager of the High Street branch, said: “The characters from Emma R McNally’s books are wonderful and we are so excited to have them centre stage of our Christmas window this year.

“There is nothing out there in the market like her early reader chapter books and they are very much needed, especially for those who are more reluctant readers.”

Emma will also be signing her books at Hyde Hall, RHS, South Woodham Ferrers, Christmas Sparkle Gift Fair on December 3 and 4 from 10am - 3pm, and Hobbycraft, Chelmer Village December 11 and 18 from 11am-3pm.