EVERY primary one pupil in the Borders is to receive a pack of free books courtesy of the Scottish Book Trust.

Over 1100 children will pick up the Bookbug Primary 1 Family Pack containing three publications, all of which are finalists in the Scottish Children’s Book Awards 2015.

Councillor Sandy Aitchison, Executive Member for Education, visited pupils at Newcastleton Primary School earlier today, Monday 17 November.

He said: “It was a pleasure to meet the children at Newcastleton who were all very excited to get their free packs. This initiative will encourage young children across the Borders to read more, which is great.

“In a world where technology continues to grow I feel there is still a big place in learning for the humble book. No electronic device can replace the excitement of turning a page and the anticipation of the pictures to brighten the words. Books are fun and always will be.” Bookbug sessions are free, fun-filled story and rhyme sessions for 0-4-year-olds, attended by more than 480,000 parents and children a year. They are run by run by local libraries or community groups. Details of local sessions are available from: www.scottishbooktrust.com/localbookbugsessions