WINNIE the Witch author Korky Paul praised children from Oxfordshire who have overcome difficulties to master the art of reading.

He was speaking at a ceremony at St John’s College, Oxford, on Friday for those completing the Reading Quest programme, which helps children master the written word.

Joining Mr Paul were clockwise from top Kelson Morris, six, eight-year-olds Katie Walker, Olivia Pritchard and Georgia Lay, Aldo Faruku, sevent, and Ester Faruku, 10.

Mr Paul, of Summertown, said: “It is essential children learn to read so that they can participate in society.”

The scheme has taught 3,500 children since beginning in Oxford 13 years ago.

Several are from families who speak English as a second language.

Call 01865 403207 or email info@readingquest.org.uk