Young bookworms from Tower Hamlets were allowed behind the Downing Street gates for a reception held to promote reading.

Young bookworms from Tower Hamlets were allowed behind the Downing Street gates for a reception held to promote reading.

The volunteers were recognised for helping organise last summer’s reading challenge, which encouraged children to devour at least six books during their summer holidays.

The Reading Agency, which coordinates the challenge, were impressed with the work of Ndi Ekanem, Sofina Karim and Bilkiss Ali, and asked them along to 11 Downing Street as special guests.

Bilkiss, 15, from Central Foundation Girls School in Mile End, said: “Being a volunteer for story lab has been an absolute pleasure and I’ve really enjoyed myself.

“The experience will help me in the future and also being a story lab assistant has boosted my confidence.”

The youngsters each chose a book to discuss at the reception which they think could change the world.