West Worcestershire MP Dame Harriett Baldwin joined MPs in Westminster to spread the joy of reading and celebrate the annual World Book Day initiative.

The MP was briefed that nearly one million children in the UK do not own a book and, this year, schoolchildren have been issued with £1 tokens that can be exchanged for a book of their choice to keep.

Dame Harriett said:

“Reading is such an important part of any child’s development, and I know as a grandparent and having visited many local primary schools whilst being an MP that children benefit greatly when they find reading fun.

“By getting children to engage with books that interest them from a young age, we can encourage them to kickstart a lifelong passion for reading.

“I take great pleasure from reading stories to my grandchildren and I hope that households across West Worcestershire will be inspired to take part in World Book Day either at school or at home.”

Cassie Chadderton, chief executive of World Book Day, said:

“This year, World Book Day’s ‘Read Your Way’ campaign encourages everyone to let go of pressure and expectations, giving children the choice and the chance to enjoy reading. We’re delighted to have Dame Harriett’s support to unlock the fun of reading for more children.”