COUNCILLOR Randell Thomas-Turner is “incredibly proud” that the ‘Reading is FUNdamental’ initiative has gone live (as of Monday, September 7).

“All schools in Haverfordwest have now been emailed about this fantastic initiative, and I cannot wait to see our young people getting involved!” said the mayor of Pembrokeshire’s County Town.

‘Reading is FUNdamental’ challenges students to read five books. They will then complete five book reports – illustrated or not, however they wish to express their thoughts and creativity.

Everything will go through their schools and school libraries. Teachers will then select the five entries from each school that they believe are the best.

The closing date will be November 6, after which the selected entries will go forward to the final stage.

Mayor Randell, Deputy Mayor Cllr Adam Benson-Davies and the Sheriff of Haverfordwest Cllr Dani Thomas-Turner will then choose the winners – and award the prizes.

The winner in first place will be invited to the Mayor’s Parlour and will join the mayor on stage to turn on the Haverfordwest Christmas Lights!

Second prize is a gift voucher, and the top three winners will receive a ‘Reading is FUNdamental’ T-shirt.

Haverfordwest parents or guardians who would like their child (age 4-18) to take part in ‘Reading is FUNdamental’ are urged to reach out to their child’s school and let them know.

“Reading opens doors,” added Cllr Randell Thomas-Turner.

“It allows us to explore different worlds, develop our imagination, learn new things and discover possibilities we may never have considered before. Most importantly, I hope this initiative encourages our young people to discover just how much enjoyment can be found in picking up a book.

“I said I would do this when I became Mayor, and I am proud that we are delivering on that promise.”