Hundreds of books will be delivered to nurseries and preschools this week to celebrate World Book Day.

Residents were invited to get involved in the campaign to take the joy of reading across the island.

Nikita Robinson, of The Worship Room on Magic 102.7, is behind the book drive to mark the event on Thursday.

She asked the public to support a nursery, preschool or public primary, middle or high school.

A total of 1,404 books will be delivered to 41 preschools and nurseries across the island.

Government primary school reading classes, middle and high school libraries as well as residential homes for children will also receive books.

A spokeswoman said: “World Book Day is Nikita’s favourite day of the year, which happens to fall on her 54th birthday this year.

“The love of literacy will be spread from one end of the island to the other by community sponsors and volunteers.

“Reading officer Kim Manderson from the Department of Education has lent her support again by retrieving specific book requests from each of the reading specialists at our public primary schools.”

She thanked all of the event’s sponsors.

To take part, visit The Bookmart at Brown & Co or call on 279-5443 to buy books or a gift card.