THE literacy of teenagers in Warrington and Cheshire is set to be further improved thanks to the community spirit and passion shown at Warrington & Vale Royal College inaugural Book Society Auction.
More than £500 was raised at the event, with funds going towards its reading campaign, funding books for students that will inevitably help to improve their reading age and abilities.
The event – held in the college’s very own Buckley’s restaurant – was dubbed a huge success by all that attended, including college staff, governors, representatives from LiveWire, Warrington’s Own Buses and sponsor Warrington Worldwide.
As well as featuring a delicious four course meal, the Book Society Auction saw special guest Malcolm Crane – author of The Rugby Clubs of England – deliver a fantastic talk, sharing his rugby anecdotes from a journalist’s and former player’s perspective. He also donated a number of copies of his book, which were snapped up before the event was over.
Gary Skentelbery, Editor of Warrington Worldwide – which has supported the college through a number of reading initiatives – said: “After hearing about the literacy issues facing young people we wanted to do something to help encourage people to read more books.
“It was fantastic to see the college replicating the historic Warrington Gentleman’s Book Society and at the same time raising funds to help improve literacy in the town.
“It was a superb event in a great facility and everyone had a great time.
“We look forward to next year’s event!”
Elizabeth Draper, Director of English at the college, was instrumental in the event’s success, even taking up the role of auctioneer on the night.
She said: “This was a lively, fun night where we all celebrated the joy and entertainment to be found in books and reading – it was a fantastic fund-raising experience combined with fine dining in our brilliant restaurant – what’s not to like? The WVR #wherereadingmatters reading campaign continues, firmly buoyed up by the support and generosity of all involved in the auction.”
Elizabeth with Malcolm Crane
