Rushden councillor collecting books to help children while the schools are closed

A Rushden councillor is collecting books and revision guides to help youngsters while the schools are closed.

Cllr Dorothy Maxwell set up a stall about three weeks ago in Higham Road, Rushden, to help children who have no or little access to children's books or revision guides for GCSE and A-levels.

As well as giving away books of her own and paying for some from her own pocket, she's also had donations from individuals as well as local businesses including Waitrose.

Cllr Maxwell said: "With no schools, libraries or book shops open and children who left school eight weeks ago with three books, how is this supposed to help with their education?"

As a former secondary school teacher, Cllr Maxwell was keen to do something to help as many children as possible have access to books for free.

The stall is open from 1pm to 4pm Monday to Friday in Higham Road near to the Prospect Avenue junction.

And the response from parents has been great so far.

Cllr Maxwell said: "It's been very successful, I have got through a phenomenal amount of books.

"They all go which shows there's a need.

"There were two 14-year-olds who were impressed and the parents are bowled over, they think it's great.

"I think people are really impressed by it, but once the books are gone, that's it."

Anyone who has any children's books or GCSE or A-level revision guides to donate can contact Cllr Maxwell on 01933 353301.

Books can be dropped off at Cllr Maxwell's house or she can arrange to pick them up.

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