Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, made a pledge at Codsall Library to read more books this summer as part of the Summer Reading Challenge, a nationwide attempt to encourage more young people to read books this summer.
Gavin was one of 70 readers to sign a pledge at Codsall Library which was witnessed by Councillor Val Chapman, to read six library books over the summer. The initiative was introduced to encourage young readers to explore some of the real-life achievements and world records as featured in the Guinness World Records Books as part of the Summer Reading Challenge 2015.
The Challenge, which was organised by The Reading Agency and public libraries, is aimed at 4- 11 year olds. Children have been encouraged to read six or more library books of their choice during the summer holidays. They receive a certificate and medal when they complete the Challenge.
As part of this year’s Record Breakers Challenge, children, parents, carers, young volunteers, teachers, much-loved children’s authors and important figures in communities around the UK will be asked to make a pledge to help the scheme set a new Guinness World Records™ title for the Most Pledges Received for a Reading Campaign.
Councillor Val Champan said: “South Staffordshire’s Codsall Library had a terrific day on Saturday 11th July and I thoroughly enjoyed my part as the Lead Witness. The Summer Reading Challenge 2015 makes reading fun as there are things to collect along the way. Children’s reading ability can dip over the summer and research by the Reading Agency has found that those who take part in the Summer Reading Challenge maintain, and even improve, their reading level over this period”
Commenting on the Challenge Gavin said: “I think the Summer Reading Challenge is a fantastic way to get more children involved in reading. Books have always played a major role in my life and schemes such as this are a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to this magical world and the excitement and joy it has to offer.”