Bookworms from a school in Bethnal Green have been raising cash to help their peers in South Africa learn to read.

Pupils from the William Davis School have teamed up with charity help2read to raise £260 to fund weekly literacy lessons for South African children.

Martha Ware, representing help2read, visited the school in Cheshire Street on Monday to present pupils with a certificate in recognition of their contribution.

“A huge thank you from everyone at help2read to all the children, parents and teachers for your fantastic support”, she said.

The partnership is now set to continue, with pupils due to hold a “learn a poem” week later this term to raise money for books for South African schools.

Since it was founded in 2005, the charity has helped more than 7,000 children improve their reading skills.