Walliams up for kids' book prize

The Boy in the Dress is Walliams' debut novel

Little Britain star David Walliams has been shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize, which honours humorous books for children.

Walliams is nominated for his debut novel, The Boy in the Dress, which was illustrated by Quentin Blake.

He faces stiff competition from five established children's authors, including Alan Ahlberg and Anne Fine.

Michael Rosen founded the £2,500 prize last year as part of his children's laureateship.

The Boy in the Dress, which is nominated in the seven to 14 age group, tells the story of Dennis, whose life changes "dramatically" after he discovers he enjoys wearing a dress.

The shortlist for the awards, which also has an under-six category, was selected by judges including Rosen, comedian Bill Bailey and last year's winning author, Andy Stanton.

Bailey said: "It was great fun judging the Booktrust Roald Dahl Funny Prize, mainly because the standard of the books was so high.

"It's so hard to choose between them, and at one point it got so tense we got through a whole plate of chocolate brownies - it's tough this judging lark."

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on 10 November.