CHILDREN were fascinated to get up close with a fascinating selection of creepy crawlies.

Halton Council's first bug fest at Castlefields Community Centre was a huge success.

Youngsters were amazed to meet a Tenrec (lesser hedgehog), Madagascan hissing cockroach, giant African land snail, corn snake and a Chilean rose tarantula.

A bug related arts and craft session followed and admission was £1 per child.

Centre manager Alison Watson,said: "We sold out all the tickets for the event and everyone seemed to enjoy holding and getting up close and personal with the creatures."