Tameside Story Makers donate Children’s Picture Books to Tameside Christmas Toy Appeal

Tameside Libraries have donated 200 copies of their original Story Makers books to the Tameside Toy Appeal, which will help to make a difference to many children’s Christmas mornings.

Each year, Tameside Story Makers run free, interactive sessions in Tameside Libraries. Simon the Story Teller delivers these sessions weekly in libraries and via zoom for children 0-4 years. Working with award winning children’s writer Caryl Hart and illustrator Andrew Rowland, the workshops result in the creation of a unique children’s picture book. This year, various copies of the Story Maker’s picture books have been donated to the Toy Appeal meaning children in poverty across Tameside will receive their own copy on Christmas day.  

Tameside Council executive leader, Cllr Ged Cooney said: ‘’This year’s donation of picture books from Tameside Story Makers is beneficial to our children in poverty in more ways than one.  Not only will it light up a child’s face on Christmas morning, providing them with their own book they can treasure and read with their parents or guardians, the gift will also promote an early love of reading. In turn, supporting their future academic achievements.

‘’The donations also relieve some pressure for parents struggling to make ends meet this Christmas. Thank you to the Story Makers team for their kind donation and to everyone who has donated to the appeal throughout the last month.’’

The annual Tameside Toy Appeal is organised by Action Together and supported by Tameside Council. The Toy Appeal provided donation points across the borough until 9 December, including drop-off points in children’s centres, libraries and council buildings. This appeal means that this Christmas new, unwrapped gifts will be given to Tameside children living in poverty. The mission is for 1 in 4 Tameside children living in poverty to receive a gift this Christmas.

Find out more about Tameside Story Makers and where to find previous year’s books at www.tameside.gov.uk/Libraries/Bookstart/StoryMakers