Fans prepare for Terry Pratchett's final Discworld novel to go on sale at midnight

Terry Pratchett fans are preparing to get their hands on the late author's final Discworld novel, which goes on sale at midnight.

The Shepherd's Crown is the 41st book in Pratchett's Discworld series and a number of bookstores are opening at midnight for customers keen to snap up the first copies.

The best-selling author died at the age of 66 in March following a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.

He became best known for his Discworld novels, which were based on magical land being carried through space on the backs of four elephants and a giant turtle.

The Shepherd's Crown features the return of young witch Tiffany Aching, who has been a character in five Discworld books and readers first met in 2003's The Wee Free Men.

Among the stores opening at midnight is Waterstones in Piccadilly, London, where a special event is being held, including a reading.

Many fans queued outside, some in fancy dress, ahead of the launch.