OLDHAM residents are being encouraged to start a new chapter for book-starved youngsters to improve children’s literacy.

The Gift Of Books campaign aims to get the printed word into the hands of children who have never owned a book.

People can drop off their favourite childhood book at their nearest collection point and it will be given to a child who needs it.

The campaign was launched following research from The National Literacy Trust earlier this year that revealed 40,000 schoolchildren across Greater Manchester aren’t fortunate enough to own a book of their own.

Twelve collection points are currently accepting donations across the region allowing local book lovers to share their love of the printed word. The donated books will be distributed to schools in Oldham identified by the National Literacy Trust as being in deprived areas where low levels of literacy are seriously impacting on people’s lives, including Mather Street Primary School and St John’s C of E infant and Nursery School.

The initiative is a joint partnership between Stockport business cartridgesave.co.uk and the National Literacy Trust.

To take part, visit cartridgesave.co.uk to find your nearest collection point, and simply drop your gift off, with a printed note explaining why you enjoyed it so much.

Schools, local groups and community centres in Oldham can also register as a collection point by filling in the sign-up form.

Ian Cowley, managing director of campaign organisers, cartridgesave.co.uk explained: “We are looking to change the future of school children in Greater Manchester one book at a time by calling on the surrounding areas of the city to help us donate as many books as possible.

“It is simply wrong that in 2018 so many children don’t own a single book, a clear sign of imbalance in our society.

“This spring we hope that the simple act of sharing the book that made a difference to your childhood, will make a critical difference in the lives of the most disadvantaged.”

Director of the National Literacy Trust Jonathan Douglas added: “The Gift of Books campaign is an absolutely brilliant way to encourage children in Greater Manchester to fall in love with reading.

“It will really help to ensure the next generation are better equipped to tackle education, work and life.”

To find your nearest drop-off point go to cartridgesave.co.uk/printwhatmatters/gift-of-books/.