“Children must not lose out due to Coronavirus” says MP as new community book scheme is launched

MP Yvette Coopers has set up a community book scheme in The Five Towns to get children reading during lockdown

MP for Normanton, Pontefract and Castleford, Yvette Cooper, has set up initiative that will see free books being delivered to families in Castleford, Pontefract, Knottingley and Normanton by local volunteers.

The initiative will see free books being delivered to families living in Castleford, Pontefract, Knottingley and Normanton by local volunteers.

Ms Cooper said: “Local teachers have told me that parents and pupils are getting in touch because they’ve run out of things to read at home, and with schools and libraries closed they haven’t been able to get hold of any more.

“Children in our towns must not lose out due to Coronavirus – that’s why I’ve been working with volunteers at our local community hubs to set up a book club in each town, to get donations of children’s books and deliver them to local families.

Community hubs involved in the scheme include Queens Mill (Castleford), St Mary’s Community Centre (Pontefract), Kellingley Club (Knottingley) and the Well Project (Normanton) to set up the project, ensuring families can still get hold of books while schools and libraries are closed.

Those interested in a children’s book delivery to their house can sign up online or get in touch with their local hub.

Ms Cooper said:“If you want a couple of books delivered to your house, fill in the form via my Facebook page or get in touch with your local community hub, and if you’ve got spare books to donate because your children have grown up, let us know and a local volunteer will come to collect them.

“Thanks to the brilliant volunteers, teachers and parents helping to organise this. It’s just another way we can support our young people through this difficult time."