PUPILS from Westleigh High and surrounding junior schools have closed the book on their reading project.

The venture, which has also involved firemen, policemen and Asda employees, finished with presentations at the Westleigh Lane school.

After adults read extracts from their favourite works, the pupils followed with renderings from books they have written.

Year 10 students from Westleigh have been working with Year 6 students from Hindley Green CP, St Peter's Juniors, Newton West Park and Westleigh Methodist Primary.

The High Schoolers produced books for the youngsters, while the juniors made others for Year 2 pupils.

Year 10 and Year 6 students also took part in a paired reading scheme.

The aim of the project was to emphasise how enjoyable reading is - particularly for boys.

John Pout, deputy head at Westleigh, said: "The project not only raises literacy standards, and strengthens the partnership between high and primary schools, but also was highly enjoyable for all who took part."

Sue Bray, head at Hindley Green CP, said: "The children thoroughly enjoyed the project, finding it enormously exciting. The relationship which has been established with the pupils and staff at Westleigh was excellent, and the students produced some wonderful stories. We intend to continue with more of this work next year."

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