PUPILS celebrated the 25th anniversary of World Book Day with a donation book bundle.

The Morrisons Foundation in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, donated 10 new books for the Parrett and Axe CE VA Primary School's library.

The school, in Mosterton, benefitted after more than 5,000 books were donated to school libraries in communities throughout England, Scotland and Wales, as part of the partnership between the two charities to help inspire and nurture.

Keira Tait, community champion at Morrisons Bridport, who presented the donation, said: "I’m so proud to be helping kids in our community through the donation of these wonderful books.

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"The challenges of the past couple of years really have been difficult for us all, particularly younger children who not only missed out on school, but also just having time with their friends and teachers.

"I hope these stories will give children at Parrett & Axe some fun as well as help them find a love of reading."

In 2019, one in four (27 per cent) 11-year-olds in England left primary school not reading at the expected level, rising to two in five (42 per cent) disadvantaged children.

Although efforts have been made to narrow this gap in attainment, there are concerns the long-lasting effects of the disruption to education caused by Covid may reverse the progress made in the last decade.

By working in partnership to donate books to communities across the country, the National Literacy Trust and Morrisons Foundation aim to support children’s literacy recovery by investing in their school libraries post-pandemic.

David Scott, Morrisons Foundation Trustee said: "We hope these books will provide enjoyment to children and help to boost their reading and literacy skills."

Jonathan Douglas CBE, chief executive of the National Literacy Trust, said: "World Book Day is a great reminder of how important children’s literacy is in developing their skills for the future."