GORDON HENDERSON MP

9th May 2012
MP's campaign to spread the reading bug

Local MP Gordon Henderson is a quarter of the way to completing his pledge to share 20 books in 2012 as part of Bookstart 20, a campaign to get the nation’s families sharing books.

Since kicking off the programme at St Clements School in Eastchurch, Mr Henderson has read to pupils at Kemsley Primary School and Luddenham Primary School and to even younger children and their parents at Ladybird Children’s Centre and Seashells Children’s Centre on the Isle of Sheppey.

On his visits Mr Henderson is reading a range of stories, including his own book, The Litter Angel, which he hopes to have published next year.

Mr Henderson said:

“I think it is very important that children learn to enjoy reading and I hope that by sharing with them my own passion for books it will pass on the reading bug.”

The reading charity Booktrust has launched Bookstart 20 to promote book sharing and to celebrate the 20th birthday of Bookstart, the world-renowned early reading scheme that gives free book packs to every baby in England.

Mr Henderson has many more visits to schools in the constituency lined up. He also hopes to visit a local bookshop or library to share a book with adults.

If you would like to join Mr Henderson and share 20 books in 2012 make the Bookstart 20 pledge now at: www.booktrust.org.uk/bookstart20.