BUDDING bookworms at All Saints are helping to spread the joy of reading to children in Africa.

Pupils at the Greenock School dressed up as their favourite characters to mark World Book Day recently.

Their efforts raised £215 to buy books for Chiradzula School in Malawi.
Jennifer McGachy, who teaches primary seven, said: “The idea came from the pupil literacy group in the upper school.

“They are really passionate about literacy, reading and writing stories.

“The group organise events throughout the year such as story and poster competitions and they spoke at assembly on World Book Day.

“They also ran a competition on the day to design a cover for their favourite book.”

The top page-turners at the school include Gangsta Granny, Mr Stink and the Demon Dentist by David Walliams. Where’s Wally by Martin Hanford and the Harry Potter series are other favourites.

Jennifer said: “There were lots of ‘Where’s Wally’ red and white stripes and we had Harry Potter and characters from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. All the teachers got involved too. Our head dressed up as the boy in the striped pyjamas and there was a Mary Poppins and a Mad Hatter too.

“It was great fun and everyone really enjoyed it.”

She also stressed the importance of reading, saying: “It doesn’t matter what the children read as long as they’re reading.

“Be it a newspaper, magazine or a football book, whatever children consume and take an interest in increases their vocabulary and helps with their writing skills.”