Youngsters to be given SPFL briefs for reading

KIDS in Dundee are being offered a free football ticket as part of a new book scheme.

Football-daft youngsters will be able to get their hands on a ticket if they manage to read four books as part of the 4-4-2 Reading Challenge, which was launched in the city today.

Both Dundee and Dundee United joined the 14 Scottish Professional Football League clubs and nearly 250 libraries taking part in the pilot project, which is open to kids aged 5-12.

Clubs and libraries will issue a reading challenge card to children who want to take part and, for every book they read, the child will receive a stamp on their card.

When they have read four books, participants will receive a free match ticket while an accompanying adult will be able to purchase a discounted ticket. The initial three-month campaign is being delivered by the SPFL Trust and Scottish Book Trust.

Dundee United club captain Willo Flood and Dundee captain Darren O’Dea are among the players backing the initiative.

The United favourite said: “In today’s world with so many gadgets, platforms and websites like YouTube, Instagram and Snapchat, it can quickly be forgotten how vital and enjoyable reading is.

“Everyone with children loves sitting reading with their kid and I am no different. Reading stimulates the mind in a truly unique way.”

Marc Lambert, Scottish Book Trust chief executive, said: “Taking part in sport and reading are both important for young people’s physical and mental health.

“As well as being fun, reading for pleasure can increase empathy, reduce stress and improve wellbeing while all the research shows that children who read for pleasure also tend to do better at school.

“We’re delighted to work with the SPFL to use sport to encourage a love of reading in Scotland’s children.”

The project could be extended across Scotland if it proves to be a success after its initial three-month run.

SPFL Trust chief executive Nicky Reid said: “The 4-4-2 Reading Challenge initiative is designed to encourage children who don’t regularly visit the library or participate in sport to do so. As such, we think it’s a real win-win opportunity for all concerned.” Ourvoice PAGE 16