THE author of the popular Pugalugs children's books Jessica Parish has awarded two schools for their commitment to reading.

Jessica Parish, had visited 30 schools in total across the borough with husband and publisher Mark and their pug dogs - the real stars of the books.

Each one they visited was eligible for the 'Pugalugs Reading Awareness Prize', the winners of which were announced on World Book Day (March 3), with prizes awarded to those schools that Jessica and Mark felt encouraged reading most among its pupils.

Unable to decide an overall winner they split the prize between Holy Spirit Catholic Primary and Broad Oak Community Primary schools which received a selection of 50 books from the Pugalugs series, a trophy and certificate.

The schools were judged on how enthusiastic the teachers were about reading, how excited the children were to meet an author, whether the schools did any preparatory work before the visit and how the school engaged with parents about reading.

Jessica and Mark held special assemblies at both schools to present the prizes.

Michelle Ravey head teacher at Holy Spirit said: "Reading is central to everything we do at Holy Spirit. It is passport to learning which all children need in order to succeed. We do everything we can to promote reading and make it fun.

"The children have been inspired to read by our dedicated teaching staff through a host of exciting and interactive events including the wonderful visit from Pugalugs. The children adored having Jessica, Mark and the dogs in school, listening intently and asking lots of interesting questions.

"A special thank you to English teacher Nichola Lamble for organising the event. We're incredibly grateful for the prizes awarded by Jessica and Mark. They'll help us continue to cultivate a love of reading in our pupils."

The Pugalugs series can be found in book stores across the country and will soon be available in Waterstones.