A weekly newspaper has launched an appeal for unwanted children’s books as it aims to improve literacy in its town.

The Tamworth Herald has started the Books for Kids campaign to encourage readers to dig out good quality books suitable for youngsters between three and 11-years-old.

They will then be given to children at primary schools, focusing on those which serve deprived area of the town, and the appeal has won the backing of local councils, MP Christopher Pincher and head teachers.

The paper launched the drive after learning that many youngsters in Tamworth do not have access to a wide range of books at home.

Editor Gary Phelps said: “Books can be prized possessions which inspire children to read, encourage creativity and improve learning and achievement.

“Many parents will have boxes full of untouched books at home, which perhaps their own children have now outgrown or who have since left school or home.

“This campaign will give new life to those books and to inspire other children to read. What better use could there be for these cherished books than to give them to children who really need them?”

The books will be collected at a number of locations in the town, including the Herald’s offices.