YOUNGSTERS, parents and grandparents came together yesterday to enjoy a tall tale or two at a Books for Babies party.

The event, at the National Railway Museum in York, was part of the national Bookstart Day celebrations, which is a scheme that offers free books to children and advice to parents.

It encourages parents to see themselves as their child's first teacher. As part of the scheme, young children reaching their eight-month assessment check with a health visitor receive a Bookstart pack. It includes free books, an invitation to join the local library and information for parents.

The parties are being held throughout York and have been organised by the city council.

Hugh Bayley, MP for York, said: "Reading is one of life's great joys, but it is essential for a child's development and understanding of the world.

"The Bookstart programme shows how the Government is working to support children in their crucial pre-school years, which do so much to influence their later lives."

Published: 12/10/2004