A TV presenter launched the city’s first outdoor children’s library in a rundown square.

Cbeebies presenter Sid Sloane was in Norfolk Square, Brighton, for the opening of the Little Free Library on Friday.

Mr Sloane, who lives in Brighton, was joined by around 80 others including representatives of many of the local businesses who came to help out.

Among those involved were La Choza Mexican restaurant, Small Batch Coffee, Co-op and The Robin Hood pub who all contributed something to the event.

Some residents had even made cakes.

The library, which is free to use, is currently fully stocked.

When you take a book away you are encouraged to leave one in its place.

Michelle Pauli, who came up with the idea for the Kids Little Free Library, said: “It’s amazing how it’s brought the community together – so many different people have put their time and hard work into making this happen.

“We’ve had such a great response from the local businesses, who have been really supportive.

“It’s great to be able to give something to Norfolk Square.”

Mr Sloane gathered children to help him officially open the library, before doing a reading of Dr Seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham.

He said: “I’ve always said the best way to encourage children to develop a love of reading is to read to them.

“Having the availability of books whether you can afford them or not is brilliant.

“They’ve taken down the barriers now and made books available to everyone – for free.”

The library has been created by residents and was designed and built by Stuart Heath, who lives nearby, and decorated with artwork by Susannah Dowse of Dowse Studio and Shop in Western Road.

The colourful beach hut-shaped box has an apt Dr Seuss quote painted on the side.

It reads: “You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child.”

The scheme invites book lovers to “take a book, leave a book”.

It is currently fully stocked with titles including All You Need is Love, a book which explores families which fall outside the traditional mum-dad make-up by local author Shanni Collins.

Norfolk Square’s Little Free Library is part of an ongoing project by the square’s residents and neighbours to bring a sense of fun and community.

Bonni Gilfoyle, of York Road, Brighton, was at the opening with her daughter.

She said: “I think they’re trying to regenerate the square because it used to be pretty grim.

“It’s a really nice thing they’ve done here, it’s been a lovely community event. You have the main library but it can be really difficult to navigate around with toddlers.

“So to have a quick pick up and drop off point that is really child-friendly at the same time, then that’s a total bonus.”

For more details on the Kids’ Little Free Library visit facebook.com/kidslittlelibrary.