Schools are back - and now is the time for teachers to sign up to a new reading initiative being launched across north and West Cumbria.

Teachers and schools can register for the Reading Passport scheme which will run this term.

CN Group, which publishes the Times & Star, is joining forces with CMC International and the News Foundation to run the project.

The Reading Passport is aimed at primary schools, particularly pupils aged nine to 11 years old.

Participating pupils will receive a reading passport and a copy of their chosen CN Group title - Times & Star, Whitehaven News, The Cumberland News or News & Star - every week for six weeks.

The children will complete the series of fun and educational activities that are packed into the pocket-sized passport.

The activities help youngsters develop a wide range of skills as they explore local people, places and events.

Pupils are also able to learn more about the world around them through current affairs covered by the media.

Those behind the scheme look forward to encouraging young children to develop a love of reading as well as help nurture a growing knowledge and understanding of the world around them.

It will cost £2 a child to take part in the Reading Passport scheme.

Schools across Allerdale, Copeland, Carlisle and Eden can sign up.

Places are limited.

Around 700 children across Barrow took part in a similar programme earlier this year.

For further details or to register your school, visit https://www.research.net/r/Reading-Passport .