Books project is such a novel idea

LENDING a hand . . . Latics coach Lee Duxbury is supporting the book crossing event

OLDHAM Council is encouraging residents to get involved in the biggest book crossing event in Greater Manchester.

From tomorrow 111 books will be left in 111 locations across the borough — everywhere from parks, bus stops, visitors centres, pubs, places of worship and youth clubs.

Book crossing involves people leaving a book they have read in a public place so someone else can pick it up, take it home and enjoy it.

All the books were donated by members of the public for the Big Book Swap, part of Oldham’s Favourite Read campaign, which aims to get more people of all ages enjoying reading.

All the books involved in the scheme will have a sticker attached on the front saying Read & Release me.

Councillor Jackie Stanton, deputy leader of Oldham Council, said: “We all have a favourite book or author and book crossing allows you to share that with others across the borough and have a bit of fun at the same time.

“Reading is not only a great and enjoyable past time but it also helps you get along in life and with your chosen career.”

Oldham Athletic is supporting the initiative and Lee Duxbury, the club’s first-team coach helped kick off the scheme when he put a book in the club shop at Boundary Park.

It is hoped that another book will also be taken up to Cumbria by a visiting fan when the Latics play Carlisle United at home on Tuesday.

Colin Moore, Latics’ community manager, said: “We are delighted to support the Book Crossing initiative and contributing to the ‘Oldham’s Favourite Read’ campaign.

“As a club we are keen to support any initiative that encourages people in Oldham to engage in positive activities and reading is not only educational but also an enjoyable activity.

“We would encourage our supporters to take a visit to their local library.”

Visit www.oldham.gov.uk/ favourite-read for more information