National Literacy Trust introduces Read North East campaign to get kids reading

Our friends at the National Literacy Trust have launched read north east to get the region reading with thousands of free books and storytelling for families.

Just under 2000 free Puffin and Ladybird books were given away to families at intu Metrocentre in Gateshead this week as part of the Read North East campaign. With appearances from children's favourite Peppa Pig and local artists Chris Callaghan and Chris Bostock, the event was the first in a series of book giveaways that will take place across the North East over the next year to inspire children to fall in love with reading.

"Reading for just ten minutes a day is enough to male a difference to children's literacy skills - with the help of Peppa Pig we're looking forward to showing families how fun this time can be."

Jonathan Douglas, Director of National Literacy Trust

The free books, donated by Penguin Random House Children's will encourage parents to talk and read to their babies and children every day, supporting their literacy and give them the best start in life.

The programme has been designed to help raise the region's literacy levels which are among the lowest in the country. It was found that 60% of wards in the North East are at risk of serious literacy problems, making it the second most vulnerable region in the country.

"We  want every child to have the opportunity to experience the magical world of stories. as a proud partner of Read North East we were delighted to give away books for local families to take home and enjoy reading together."

Francesca Dow, Managing Director of Penguin Random House Children's

Families can enjoy future storytelling and book giveaways at the following events:

Thursday 2 November - Bookworm Babies @ Seven Stories, Newcastle

Sunday 5 November - Read North East Book Giveaway @ middlesborough v sunderland, riverside stadium

saturday 18 november - northern children's book festival gala @ the word, national centre for written word in south shields

thursday 30 november - read north east book giveaway @ the stockton sparkles christmas lights switch on event

saturday 30 and sunday 31 december - around the world new years eve part for under 5s @ seven stories, newcastle