Commuters encouraged to read and ride on World Book Day

Commuters encouraged to read and ride on World Book Day

Commuters across Greater Manchester will be surprised with free books on Thursday morning to celebrate World Book Day 2017.

As part of the campaign, every tram on the Metrolink network will be filled with children’s books and ‘Quick Reads’ titles for adults from iconic authors including Agatha Christie, Dame Jacqueline Wilson and David Walliams.

The campaign promotes reading for pleasure across the city and aims to boost literacy levels.

Peter Cushing, Transport for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink Director, said: “We are pleased to be able to join our partners in celebrating the 20th anniversary of World Book Day. It’s such an important campaign – one in six people in the UK live with poor literacy skills, which can impact every aspect of life.

“Travelling on public transport can be a good time to catch up on some reading. We hope our customers and their loved ones enjoy the books left for them this morning.”

Jonathan Douglas, Director of the National Literacy Trust, added: “As schools celebrate World Book Day with dressing up and exciting events, we hope the tram activity will inspire Greater Manchester residents of all ages to pick up a book and start a reading habit.”