A recently launched initiative raise money to purchase books to gift to local children at Christmas, has achieved double its initial fundraising target.

Literacy for Life had the original aim of raising enough funds to buy the equivalent of 1000 books, to be distributed to young people in Staffordshire by working with three charities - Stoke Toy Appeal, Alice Charity and Step-Up Stoke CIC.

Following around three months of fundraising through networking events, a social media drive, and word of mouth, the initiative will now gift 2000 books next month.

The books have been both gifted directly, and purchased by Literacy for Life using monetary donations.

The initiative is the brainchild of founder Rebecca Winfield from Meir Park, who runs community group, 'Just another book club' who said the aim has always been to provide the gift of reading to young people who need it the most in the local area.

She said: "The money we've raised has been used to purchase books that will then be distributed to children who may not otherwise have access to reading material beyond school, or receive an individual gift this Christmas.

"We've also received a significant quantity of physical books to share from authors which has completely exceeded our expectations.

"As a book club, we naturally have a passion for literacy and sharing the joy of reading.

"That's what led us to create Literacy for Life, so we could instigate positive change within our community.

"We're completely ecstatic that we've not only managed to meet our initial target, but double it. We couldn't have asked for a better result in our first year."

The initiative has received donations from several businesses including Fenton Glass & Glazing, Soles Foot Care, Moorlands Beauty Salon, Tropic Skincare's Kim O'Keeffe, as well as local individuals who've been keen contribute to the cause.

Physical books have been donated by children's authors from across the country, while the group has also been successful in applying for a microgrant.

Children's author, Brian Frederick, known for the Siggy series of books about a dachshund, donated 320 copies of 'Siggy Loves Sausages' as well as a number of plush toys.

Rebecca explained that Literacy for Life has now established an official collaboration with Brian, which will continue into future years.

Reflecting on his donation, Brian said: "Siggy exists as an ambassador for kindness, and he wants to give joy to whoever he meets.

"It's wonderful for me to meet that splendid spirit of kindness here again by working with Literacy for Life. I'm so proud to be a little part of the amazing work they're doing."

There is still time to donate before Christmas, when all books will have to be individually wrapped and labelled.

Rebecca added: "For next year, we hope that more local businesses might want to be involved, to help ensure we reach as many children as possible and build on our foundations.

"Every donation, no matter how small, will help us to make a difference to children in Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding areas."

To find out more and ways to donate, visit the Literacy for Life website here.