KM reading scheme Buster’s Book Club is backing today’s World Book Day campaign which celebrates the stories that capture youngster’s imaginations.

A colourful cast of Gruffalos, Cat In The Hats, Weasleys and more poured into schools across Kent and Medway this morning as pupils taking part in the campaign proudly wore costumes of their favourite characters from beloved books.

Simon Dolby from the KM Charity Team, which runs the Buster’s Book Club literacy scheme for schools, said he was delighted that families joined in with a fun way to promote books and a love of reading.

Mr Dolby said: “We’re passionate about helping children to enjoy stories and boost their literacy skills. World Book Day is a wonderful way to raise awareness of the joy that reading brings to readers of all ages.”

More than 10,000 pupils from 40 primary schools across the county are taking part in Buster’s Book Club. The scheme sets home reading targets for children and rewards them with stickers and other prizes.

Mr Dolby said: “Any reading activity counts towards their target, whether it’s the children reading to themselves, listening to audiobooks or being read to by mum or dad. It’s about enjoying stories in all their forms.”

Buster’s Book Club is supported by engaging wall charts, badges and resources to reward star readers as well as a series of reading challenge days to win tickets to leading leisure attractions in Kent.

Key partners of Buster’s Book Club include Kent County Council, Medway Council, Specsavers, Mini Babybel, Golding Vision (part of Golding Homes), Orbit South, Three R’s Teacher Recruitment, and Leeds Castle.

Schools wanting to find out more can visit www.bustersbookclub.co.uk or call 0844 264 0291.

To find out more about World Book Day go to www.worldbookday.com.