BRANDLESHOLME Community Centre is seeking sponsors as it teams up with a publisher to get children in Bury reading.

The charity is working in partnership with Usborne Books to launch the ‘Bury Book Pledge’ in order to be able to help deliver books to schools and children’s service providers across Bury, Ramsbottom and Tottington.

Brent-James Pinder, Chief Officer & Chair of Brandlesholme Community Centre, said: "Children’s Reading has been at a 15 year low, with children using books less and less in the tech world.

"With the pandemic though, there has been a bit of a rise, but unfortunately not every household with children has access to books.

"A local point of access to literature for many are local libraries but many have been closed down or had funding cut. Such as our own building which previously housed a community library.

"It is really important for our children in Bury who don't have an natural interest or access to books to get reading."

The charity is aiming to reach £1,000, with Usborne matching up to 60% of that total, ensuring that more books can be purchased.

While the books vary in price, Brent says that they can be bought in bundles so that more children can have access.

Usborne is the title holder of ‘Children’s Publisher of the year 2020’ and has countless books covering all themes and topics.

Brent said that B.C.C. is keen on buying certain books which make classics more accessible to younger and less able children.

For example, certain Shakespeare stories have been converted into books with lots of images, making it more attractive to a younger audience. The range of books that can be accessed include those specialising in mental health and different learning abilities.

He added: "The main thing at the minute is finding sponsors. We need local businesses to keep it hyper-local and support the local community’s future business leaders.

"Once we have enough, We will start working with schools and groups about what books they need."

To become a sponsor for the charity, contact Brent on 073116 55516 or brent@brandlesholme.com