AN initiative will launch in Thurrock over the Easter weekend in a bid to get more young people interested in reading.

It's being run by Carmen Enache who is an Independent Usborne Partner, based in Chafford Hundred who publishes the Facebook page 'The Magic Shelf'.

Carmen says: "I am pleased to launch a great initiative for our community for Easter Weekend - the first Book Hunt.

"I am very passionate about putting books into children's hands and encouraging them to read!

"Between Friday, 29 March and Monday, 1 April, I will be hiding books in different parts of Thurrock for the children to find. They can take the book home to read, keep it, pass it on, or re-hide it."

Carmen is seeking help from local businesses, asking them if they can support a set of books to be found?

She adds: "It will be free advertising in your local area whilst helping families to promote reading for pleasure!

"If your business can contribute towards a whole book library or even part of one, this will help to get lots of extra books out there to be found!

"Any amount is gratefully received!

"Please contact me via social media or email: [email protected]."