Walsall players book time off for reading

Footballers spent their day off helping primary school students develop a passion for reading.

Published Mar 6, 2020

Cameron Norman, right and Caolan Lavery pictured with Archie Good and Anmol Manne, both aged 9 along with classmates at St Giles C Of E Primary School, Walsall Street, Willenhall, as they pay a visit for World Book Day

Walsall FC defender Cameron Norman and forward Caolan Lavery visited St Giles CE Primary School ahead of World Book Day.

Pupils have been focusing on reading through a “World Book Week” – rather than a day.

Mark Dakin, headteacher at the Willenhall-based school, said: “We’re promoting World Book Day all week and we’ve had a lot of book-related events in school to try and develop a passion for reading in our students.

“Walsall FC has been keen to develop and support us in any way they can.

“They’re friends of the school and we work with them quite closely – they help us with the curriculum and it’s a great partnership. It’s great because they’ve given up their afternoon off to support the children – they were really great.”

The two players read some books from Tom Palmer – a known children’s author – with the children during their visit.

“It’s great for them to visit and good for the children because they’re keen to learn more about the team,” Mr Dakin added.

It comes ahead of the Saddlers’ League Two clash against Exeter City tomorrow.

Walsall FC currently sit 15th in the table.