The author of the best selling picture book The Gruffalo has been appointed the new childrens laureate taking over from Anthony Browne after his two year term.

The Gruffalo has been adapted for a London West End stage show and a 30 minute animation first screened on BBC1 at Christmas in 2009 featured the voices of Helena Bonham Carter and Tom Wilkinson.

Julia started her career writing songs for childrens TV and intends to put music and drama at the heart of her laureateship.

Previous childrens laureates include the creator of Tracy Beaker Jacqueline Wilson, poet Michael Rosen and the first childrens laureate Quentin Blake.

A Canal Boat Holiday is the perfect opportunity to spend some time reading to your children.

Bring along a supply of books and catch up on reading whilst relaxing in the evening.

The lounge areas on a Canal Boat Holiday are comfy which means after a day on the canal you can put your feet up and relax whilst reading your favourite novel.

A Canal Boat Holiday is truly relaxing and is free from pressure giving you a chance to completely unwind and take life at a slower more tranquil pace.

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