READING has become a more interesting experience for the youngest pupils at Walter Powell School in Great Somerford since parents, teachers and the local community got together to produce story packs.

The packs are small handmade bags which contain books, games and toys on themes such as zoo animals and the farm.

They are aimed at the nursery and reception children, the youngest of whom are under five years old.

The packs are taken home so that reading can be shared with the whole family.

The whole community was involved in producing the packs.

The Coffee Pots have made bags and toys at their weekly coffee mornings.

The Little Somerford Women's Institute and the Community Room sewing group used their needlework skills to produce more of the packs.

"A lot of people have gone to a lot of trouble," said head teacher Maris Cole.

The bags were filled by members of the local community and staff and parents at the school.

But many people in the community bought the contents at their own expense.

"It's very much a community project and we've got a lovely selection of packs for the children to take home.

"It really makes reading an interesting, shared and enjoyable experience," said Mrs Cole.