Member Article

Wordsmiths at Scriba PR set to donate 250 books to Yorkshire’s youngsters

Huddersfield-headquartered public relations firm Scriba PR is encouraging youngsters to delve back into books, with the launch of a new competition.

Recognising the cognitive and wellbeing benefits associated with reading at any age, Scriba has challenged under 11s from throughout the region to pen a short story of anything up to 250 words. Authors of the best five tales will then be hand-picked to each win a selection of 50 books for their school, nursery or community group.

Open to anyone up to the age of 11 with a Yorkshire postcode, the competition marks Scriba’s latest drive to maintain or ignite youngsters’ passion for the English language.

The business has long supported over 16s with lessons, workshops and internships, keen to promote the power of words. But this is the first time the PR team has turned its attentions to the region’s youngest readers and writers.

Commenting on the launch of the challenge, managing director Katie Mallinson said: “We’re a PR company specialising in tech so I’m not about to dissuade children from embracing the importance of digital literacy. But we are wordsmiths too and don’t want youngsters’ eagerness to delve into books, to be lost.

“Away from the academic benefits, reading is proven to help people relax, relieve stress, improve memory and boost concentration. Books can also provide entertainment, stimulation and education, not to mention the opportunity for pure escapism. Plus, worryingly, UK statistics state that 5.1 million adults don’t have the reading skills expected of the average 11 year old.

“We therefore encourage anyone aged 11 or under to send us their best 250 words – fictional or not – for the chance to win some books to share with their friends.”

Founded in 2013, Scriba began its fifth birthday celebrations this June. The competition – with five winners – is the team’s latest way to mark its half a decade in business.

The closing date for the competition is 30 September. Winners will be announced and the 250 books delivered, by Wednesday 10 October.

Any youngsters wishing to enter the competition, should send their name, address, age, nominated school/community group – and of course their story – to louise@scribapr.com or Scriba PR, Wellington Mills, 70 Plover Road, Huddersfield, HD3 3HR.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Katie Mallinson .