A Kirklees Council event to promote a love of reading amongst local children has been praised as “highly successful.”

Kirklees schools were invited to take part in the annual quiz, which encourages pupils to read a wide range of books before going head-to-head to showcase their knowledge.

The event – organised by the council’s Schools Library Service – is linked to World Book Day and took place online this year due to restrictions around Covid-19.

There were 25 teams, with plenty of prizes up for grabs, and entrants were asked questions on 20 different books. The hosting skills of locally-based poet Conrad Burdekin ensured the children had lots of fun.

The quiz was open to pupils aged nine to 12 and the eventual winners were from Holmfirth High School, with Crow Lane Primary and Field Lane JIN close behind.

Clr Carole Pattison, Cabinet member for learning, aspiration and communities, said: “Reading is so important because it builds our knowledge, improves our vocabulary and fires our imagination.

“Countless studies have shown how children can benefit when they feel inspired to enjoy books. As a council, we work with the Kirklees family of schools to foster this enjoyment.

“Kirklees pupils usually gather in person for the World Book Day Quiz but, despite having to be online this year, it was still a highly successful and enjoyable event.

“We would like to say a big ‘thank you’ to all the schools and children who took part. Reading books really does help children to aspire and achieve.”