A CHARITY which helps thousands of children learn to read is hoping to recruit more volunteers.

Literacy charity Beanstalk needs volunteers prepared to help out in schools in the Peterlee, Wheatley Hill and Kelloe areas.

In the last school year, more than 2,500 children left primary school in the North East unable to read to the required level.

Each Beanstalk reading helper supports three children with their reading over three terms.

Trained volunteers see each child for two 30-minute sessions a week, during term-time, transforming the child’s approach to learning and enjoying reading.

To find out more call Beanstalk on 01325 315040 or visit beanstalkcharity.org.uk/reading-helpers.