Primary school children who have burrowed into their books have been awarded at a special certificate presentation event.

Pupils across the county taking part in home reading initiative Buster’s Book Club were crowned champions at Silver Blades Ice Rink, Gillingham following their Summer Challenge Day success.

All schools partaking in the schemes were required to read additional minutes on the Challenge Day, with the class producing the most collective reading times rewarded.

The children were presented with ice skating tickets and framed certificates, and were cheered on by representatives from Countrystle Recycling and Silver Blades.

Mat Mulvey of Countrystyle, said: “Literacy is incredibly important. Some 96% of employment opportunities are based around good literacy skills, so it is great to see schools involved with Buster’s Book Club really supporting the development and growth of pupils’ reading, writing, listening and speaking.”

Young champion Harvey Kerr-Roach, 6, from Shears Green Infant School in Gravesham made it very clear why he loves taking part in home reading. “I love Buster’s Book Club and do lots of reading because it helps my class win the reading challenge!.” he said.

Organisations backing home reading services for schools include Specsavers, Mini Babybel, Kent County Council, Medway Council, Golding Vision (Part of Golding Homes), Kent Reliance, Three R’s Teacher Recruitment, Orbit South, Silver Blades Ice Rink and Countrystyle Recycling.

Simon Dolby, chief executive of the KM Charity Team which organises Buster’s Book Club and Reading Bug, said: “Our reading champions have provided tremendous work and proved their dedication to home reading. It’s a delight to congratulate them today and we hope their efforts inspire others.”

Schools can join KM home reading initiatives by contacting the KM Charity Team on 0844 264 0291 or contacting Literacy leader Charlotte Hayes at chayes@thekmgroup.co.uk

BUSTER’S BOOK CLUB SUMMER CHALLENGE WINNERS

Gravesham: Shears Green Infant School – Lions Class

Swale: Meadowfield School – Badgers Class