NORTH-East football stars are spearheading a campaign to encourage people to read more.

The Read the Game initiative, organised by Easington and Seaham Education Action Zone, in County Durham, aims to promote literacy by urging children and adults to read.

It includes a poster campaign which uses positive role models to motivate children and encourages partnerships between football clubs and local educational establishments.

The posters, featuring stars such as Sunderland's Kevin Phillips, Middlesbrough's Gareth Southgate and Ugo Ehiogu, and Newcastle's Shay Given and Steve Harper, will be sent to schools throughout the North-East.

The region has benefited from an investment of £3m by the Football Foundation, all-owing the construction of grass roots facilities for footballers of all ages and the creation of community projects.

Lord Pendry, chairman of the Football Foundation, welcomed the latest initiative, which it has supported with a £24,500 grant.

He said: "Football is unique in its ability to act as a positive force within society and education.

"By acting as role models, these footballing legends are underlining the game's commitment to communities, and they should be congratulated for their good work.

"The Read the Game project is exceptional in its ability to reach out to people of all ages and encourage them to start reading - it's never too early, or too late, to start."