MD backs book scheme

THE managing director of property consultancy Dunlop Heywood has gone back to his roots to support a book-gifting scheme for young children in Yorkshire.

Stuart Hicks began his career as a chartered surveyor on the Canterbury housing estate in Bradford in the early 1990s.

Mr Hicks, a father-of-two, is bringing both business knowledge and financial support to the Canterbury Imagination Library (Bradford) project.

Canterbury Imagination Library (Bradford) is affiliated to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a scheme set up by the US country singer to offer free books for under-fives.

Parents register their youngsters and the children receive a free book, addressed to the child, through the post every month from birth until their fifth birthday, building up their own ‘library’ and enhancing literacy and life chances.

Mr Hicks is working with organiser Jan Winter in setting up the scheme, the first of its kind in West Yorkshire.

Mr Hicks said: “There is a huge amount of evidence that shows literacy skills enhance educational and job prospects but they also underpin strong family relationships and bonds.

“I have two young girls of my own and I think that every child should have the same chances and choices in life, no matter where they live or which community they belong to.

“Canterbury Imagine is a fantastic scheme that costs just £2 per month per child who register. It has already proven to make a real difference to children who take part.”

A similar scheme in Rotherham – the first set up in the UK – has seen children attaining significantly higher scores on communication skills as they enter school when compared with youngsters who had not received the books.

Dunlop Heywood is headquartered in Manchester but has an office in Leeds.

For more information, visit www.canterburyimagine.co.uk or email Jan Winter at canterburyimagine@btinternet.com.