Eagle-eyed youngsters, in Scotswood, may have spotted some literary gifts hidden around the local area.
Book fairies have been busy leaving out books and resources for local children to find, fostering an interest in reading and encouraging the use of the nearby by Denton Burn Library.
The initiative has been delivered in partnership by North East Charity, Healthworks, regeneration partnership, New Tyne West Development Company (NTWDC) and The National Literacy Trust.
Healthworks’ Lisa Conroy says: “We are always looking at ways to spark an interest in books and reading amongst members of our local community. NTWDC has been funding our library sessions at which we have provided free activities – including story time, interactive games and arts and crafts – as well as snacks for families. We’ve also linked with the friends of Denton Dene who have organised community litter picks around the sessions.
“The aim is to get local young people to use the library more often and when our ‘Book Fairy’ contacts heard about this, they wanted to leave some gifts around the area – some of which have kindly been provided by National Literacy Trust – for local children to find.
“Our tiny, winged friends have been visiting throughout the spring and are expected to be active in the area again over the summer, so keep your eyes peeled!”
Lee McGray, Director with NTWDC, added: “This is another example of the amazing work that Lisa and the Healthworks team undertake in the local area. A whole new project has sprouted from these initial library sessions – and I know the children have had a great time hunting for these books and trying to spot one of the elusive book fairies!”
Linzi Winn, Manager of the National Literacy Trust in the North East, said: “We are delighted to support this magical project which will get more books into the hands of local children. We know that when children and young people are given opportunities to discover stories in ways that feel fun and imaginative, this can help to nurture a love of reading which can have a lifelong impact – from boosting confidence and wellbeing to improving academic performance and future outcomes.
“A huge thank you to Lisa – who is one of our brilliant Literacy Champions – for her incredible efforts to boost reading for enjoyment across the local area.”
Celebrating its 30th year, Healthworks works across the region supporting people of all ages to live longer, healthier and happier lives. Its recent impact report estimated that its community interventions could have saved the health and social care system over £46million*.
NTWDC is the housing-led regeneration partnership, comprising Newcastle City Council and Keepmoat, behind The Rise development – a project with plans to build 1,800 mixed-tenure homes in the west end of the city.
*Healthworks latest annual report can be found here: https://www.healthworksne.org.uk/our-impact/
**Photo caption: Healthworks’ Lisa Conroy is joined by children from Bridgewater Primary School as they search for treats left behind by the book fairies