DELEGATES from across the district are being invited to a conference dedicated to literacy.

Bradford charity Reading Matters, which this year celebrates its 20th anniversary, is staging the event on June 29.

There will be expert speakers, workshops and a chance to network with professionals in children's reading skills.

Among those at the event, at Bradford City FC, will be award-winning author and former teacher Andy Seed.

"A child who reads is a young person whose life is on the right track – one who will find doors opening and opportunities expanding in later life," he said.

"As an author, I put all my creative energy into writing books which I know children will enjoy and which can hook those who are disengaged from the written word.

"I'm very much looking forward to meeting people at the forefront of literacy development and to sharing exciting ideas and strategies which can change attitudes and get children reading."

Reading Matters, a not-for-profit charity and social enterprise, provides literacy support and training to schools locally and across the country.

In the two decades since it was launched, it has supported thousands of students through one-to-one programmes.

Last year alone, the charity helped more than 6,800 children improve their reading age by an average of 13 months.

The organisation trains both adults and young people to become reading mentors for children.

It also stages an annual fundraising ball – this year's event coined-in £20,000.

Chief executive, Rachel Kelly, said: "We're really looking forward to what promises to be an absorbing and inspiring conference.

"Anyone involved in developing children's literacy is welcome to attend.

"There will be a strong focus on practical strategies to help inspire everyone from librarians to teaching assistants and senior leaders achieve the best outcomes for children across all key stages."

Tickets cost £100 and include a two-course lunch and goody bag.

To book, visit readingmatters.org.uk or call 01274 692219.