COPIES of bestseller the Diary of a Wimpy Kid have been given away by Poole Central Library to encourage children to read.

In partnership with ITV Good Morning Britain and supporting the ‘Just Read’ campaign, the library gave away 50 copies of the bestselling book to local children on Saturday.

Poole Central library was one of 200 libraries across the UK taking part in the ‘Just Read’ giveaway, supported by national charity The Reading Agency and children’s publisher Puffin.

The campaign encourages parents and carers to spend ten minutes reading with their children every day.

Millions of children are readers because of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Jeff Kinney’s work is perfect for turning reluctant readers on to books. With 50 per cent words and 50 per cent cartoons, the books are 100 per cent hilarious. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck was voted by children as ‘Favourite Book’ in the 2014 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards.

As well as the giveaway, children who visited Poole Central library on Saturday were able to enjoy a special Diary of a Wimpy Kid themed Craft Club with games, activities and refreshments. Craft Club happens every Saturday at Poole Central Library between 11am and noon – but last Saturday’s was special.

Cllr Xena Dion, portfolio holder for culture and community learning, Borough of Poole said: “It is hugely important for children to enjoy books as reading helps develop concentration and focus, as well as their imagination.

“This campaign is a fantastic opportunity for them to own a copy of Diary of A Wimpy Kid and open up a world of stories and characters to explore.

“I would encourage parents and carers to visit the library and read a book with their child, one of the most pleasurable activities you can share.”