BARTON youngsters are taking advantage of free story readings to help them get ready for school.

The sessions at Barton Neighbourhood Centre every Thursday are aimed at introducing writing and speaking to children on the estate before they go to school.

Storytime host Velma Shallow, from Littlemore, read to the group of five children with her three-year-old son Liam Savery last Thursday.

She said: “I go in and just read a story and we do a little activity afterwards that is related to the story.“I love reading stories to my son and I just think it is great to show people that reading can be fun and an everyday part of your life.”

The free term-time sessions are aimed at under fives. To join in, come to the Underhill Circus centre from 1pm to 2pm.