A NEW reading corner has opened at a Durham school.

It is hoped the new facility will encourage students at Durham Gilesgate Sports College to read more and boost literacy levels.

The corner was created following a project involving the school and the Seven Stories Centre for Children’s Books, in Newcastle.

Students worked with illustrators Karin Littlewood and Cathy Brumby, author Carina Rodney and English and Art teachers on a variety of literacy-related activities.

Lisa Packer, community and curriculum art co-ordinator at the school, said: "It was important to us that much of the project was student led.

"We engaged a small group of students who worked with Beth Coverdale, Reader in Residence, to audit current facilities, interview staff and students and work as a group to develop ideas for making reading in school a more enjoyable experience.

"The wonderful new Reading Corner is a result of their hard work."

The scheme was supported by Durham County Council and The Forge and funded by the Arts Council England.