From David Hutchings, Exeter 382594, May 09, 2008

DEVON GETS READING announced today that the renowned author and former Children's Laureate Michael Morpurgo has agreed to be patron of the campaign.

Devon Gets Reading is part of the National Year of Reading and is designed to boost literacy across the county.

Mr Morpurgo is one of Britain's best-loved and most successful novelists.

He has written over 100 books and lives at Iddesleigh in Devon where he also runs the charity Farms for City Children which gives young people from urban areas the chance to spend time in the country.

Mr Morpurgo said he was thrilled to become patron of Devon Gets Reading.

"Reading opens the doors to knowledge and understanding - is there anything more important for children growing up in this ever more complex world," he said?

Mr Morpurgo will be reading to pupils from Hatherleigh Primary School and Ratcliffe Special School in Dawlish in the Devon County Council marquee at the Devon County Show at 10.30am on Thursday (May 15) as part of the campaign.

Devon County Council's deputy leader John Smith, who is also responsible for children's services, said: "We are absolutely delighted that Mr Morpurgo has agreed to be patron of this vital campaign.

"Literacy is one of the greatest gifts we can help our children attain.

"It is not only the key to success in whatever career they choose, it also unlocks a world of knowledge, wisdom, pleasure and imagination that lasts a lifetime.

"Devon County Council is committed to making Devon Gets Reading a success.

"We are backing the campaign in our children's centres, schools and colleges and across other areas of the authority's work in libraries, youth centres and in our partnerships with midwives and health workers who can help new mums and dads encourage a love of reading in their children."

Devon Gets Reading coordinator Roger Kirk, the former principal of Dawlish Community College, said being good readers helps people:

• communicate well and express themselves
• experience and access knowledge
• gain qualifications at school and throughout life
• choose from a wide range of opportunities
• have high self esteem
• access other people's opinions and feelings
• contribute to their community and create opportunities for change
• help their children and others with their learning

He said the key aims of the campaign were to engage every child in Devon in a National Year of Reading activity and to encourage staff working with children and their families to emphasise the importance of reading.

"Together we can a make a real difference to reading in Devon," said Mr Kirk.

There will be a diverse programme of activities in libraries across the county throughout the National Year of Reading including reading festivals and author visits.

NOTE TO NEWS EDS: Reporters and photographers are welcome to attend the reading at 10.30am at the Devon County Council marquee at the County Show on Thursday, May 15. For further information contact Roger Kirk on 01626 871076 or 07920514172 or email rmkirk@onetel.net

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