More than 170 school children from two schools in Kingston upon Thames took part in storytelling sessions this summer organised by the Eden Walk Shopping Centre, aimed at inspiring youngsters to fall in love with reading.

The events involved children hearing stories from professional storyteller Tony Dallas, and were part of the Young Readers Programme, an award-winning initiative sponsored by Eden Walk Shopping Centre's co-owner British Land and run-in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, designed to encourage children to read outside of the classroom.

During the literary-focused events, pupils from King's Oak and Riverview CofE primary school also learnt to choose books they will enjoy and were able to take home a book of their choice.

Research by the National Literacy Trust has shown that owning a book means children are more likely to say they enjoy reading and are more inclined to read in their spare time.

Almost 6% of children in the UK do not own a book which equates to almost 415,000 children across the country.

Jonathan Douglas, Chief Executive of the National Literacy Trust said: "Reading for enjoyment is proven to support mental wellbeing, literacy skills and future success. Encouraging children to enjoy reading from a young age can have a measurable impact on the rest of their lives.

"But the sad reality is that 6% of children across the country don't have their own book to read at home, and many don't find reading enjoyable. Through the Young Readers Programme and the support of British Land, we are able to help so many more children have fun whilst reading outside of the classroom, give them access to inspiring books and access to many benefits that they otherwise might be missing out on."

British Land and the National Literacy Trust are celebrating 11 years in partnership this year and, since the programme launched at Eden Walk Shopping Centre, it has supported more than 2,100 school children and seen more than 6,400 books donated across Kingston.

Tina Powley, centre manager at Eden Walk Shopping Centre added: "Supporting local children and their families is so important to us and the Young Readers Programme is an integral part of this.

"We look forward to the brilliant initiative every year and have loved seeing children from across our community enjoy their storytelling sessions."

The National Literacy Trust aims to improve the reading, writing, speaking and listening skills of those who need it most, giving them the best possible chance of success in school, work and life.

To discover more on the charity's communal work, visit their website here.