A host of public figures recently celebrated World Book Day by taking part in a book drive and reading to the Island’s students.

Minister of National Security Michael Dunkley was joined by Shadow Minister of Community Affairs Michael Weeks, Deputy Speaker Suzann Holshouser and former MP Lt Col David Burch in marking the occasion by reading at schools across the Island.

The book drive, organised by radio personality Nikita Robinson, meanwhile led to the donation of hundreds of books to Bermudian students.

Mr Dunkley, who read to youngsters at Happy Valley Child Care and brought a set of books to the school, said: “I want to commend Mrs Robinson for organising this community effort to provide every nursery and preschool student with a free book in celebration of World Book Day. I was pleased to do my part on behalf of our young people.”

Mr Weeks said it was a pleasure to be involved in World Book Day and donate a set of books to Creative Touch Pre-School.

“I thought it important to do something, as we cannot impress on our young people enough, the importance of literacy,” Mr Weeks said.

“As adults we can never underestimate the power of words or how they are used. And we need always encourage tomorrow’s future to have a love of reading.”