BRIDGWATER youngsters were given an insight into life in Parliament – and the joys of reading – during a visit by the area’s MP.

Children at Hamp Academy and Bridgwater College Academy Primary met MP Sir Ashley Fox (Con, Bridgwater), who presented Year 4 pupils at both schools with free books to kick off their summer reading adventures.

The visits are part of the new Read2Succeed campaign, spearheaded by Mr Fox, to promote literacy and inspire a love of reading among young people.

It complements the Summer Reading Challenge run by Somerset Libraries and ensures every child taking part starts with a book of their own.

The campaign is being delivered in partnership with the team at Sydenham Community Centre, and backed by Persimmon Homes Severn Valley, which donated £2,000 through its Community Champions programme to help fund the campaign and expand access to books for young readers.

MP Ashley Fox with children at Hamp Academy, Bridgwater

“Reading opens up a world of opportunity, and I want every child in the constituency to have that chance,” Mr Fox said.

“It was a pleasure to visit both Hamp Academy and Bridgwater College Academy, meet the pupils, and see their enthusiasm for reading.

“Schemes like this are about giving children the tools to succeed, and it can start with something as simple and powerful as a book.

“If we can help just one child discover the joy of reading, it will have been worth it.”

He said he hopes the scheme will receive more backing to include more schools next year.

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