YOUNGSTERS at a Swindon primary school have been given free books to encourage them to develop a love of literature.

Around 25 children from King William Street Primary School attended a giveaway at the Waterstone's store in Brunel Plaza to celebrate World Book Day yesterday.

Teachers and pupils were allowed to pick £100 worth of books for the school library.

The youngsters could also redeem their £1 World Book Day vouchers at the store.

Children across the country were given the vouchers as part of the reading initiative.

Pupils also received a free Waterstone's goodie bag, which included a pocket guide to the best children's books, and took part in a competition to design a book cover.

Martin Hoar, assistant manager at the store, said: "All the children thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

"It's extremely important that we encourage children to develop a love of books."