It’s been 25 years since the publication of classic children’s book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, Michael Rosen’s adventure story illustrated by Hampstead’s very own Helen Oxenbury.

Ham & High: A life size bear proved a big hit with the children. Picture: Nigel SuttonA life size bear proved a big hit with the children. Picture: Nigel Sutton (Image: � Nigel Sutton email pictures@nigelsuttonphotography.com)

So it was with more than a little excitement that two generations of readers welcomed Helen to Keats Community Library to celebrate both the book’s anniversary and the library’s second birthday on Friday.

Ham & High: Illustrator Helen Oxenbury with a young fan. Picture: Nigel SuttonIllustrator Helen Oxenbury with a young fan. Picture: Nigel Sutton (Image: � Nigel Sutton email pictures@nigelsuttonphotography.com)

The illustrator was even joined by a life-size bear, who proved a great hit with children.

Helen said: “It was lovely that the library put on this event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the book. It was really touching to see two generations enjoying the reading, and the little ones absolutely adored the bear.”

Vicky Bobasch, a trustee of the library, added: “Helen Oxenbury has been a huge supporter of Keats Library. When we took over the library Helen made an illustration specially for our books bags, called Balancing the Books, and it was wonderful to have her in the library again on our second birthday to celebrate her beautiful and incredibly popular work.”