THE WORD is out – Glusburn children spend their lunchtimes playing Scrabble with the head.

Richard Hunt has started a Scrabble club at the village primary school to improve children's educational and social skills.

He said there were numerous educational benefits including improving vocabulary and literacy, and supporting maths skills through scoring double and triple points.

He added: "It gives an opportunity for problem solving and strategy: considering where they place the word might allow their opponent to play better word.

"Social benefits include interaction between peers, improved mental health through talking and companionship, and fun.

playing. 

"It is planned that in the New Year the club will be shared with residents of Anchor Housing properties, Sunnybank and Townend in Cross Hills and Glusburn.

"This will allow for the school community to interact with an older generation and talk together whilst playing, again supporting mental health and loneliness