YOUNG and old came together to celebrate the joy of reading at an Abingdon care home.

Pupils from Our Lady Abingdon Junior School helped residents at Bridge House mark Children's Book Week.

Author Laura James, who was shortlisted in 2017 for the Waterstones Children’s Book prize for her popular book Captain Pug, was the guest of honour at the event last week, which saw the youngsters bring in their favourite books and read extracts with residents.

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A poll was also run in the home to find out the care home residents' favourite books and authors from their childhoods.

Beatrix Potter came in first with Winnie the Pooh and Paddington Bear taking second and third place.

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June Maharaj, manager of Bridge House said: “Planning for this event created great excitement amongst our residents, with lots of discussions about favourite books from childhood - rekindling lovely memories.

"It was nice for our residents to share these memories with the children, as these are books that are still recognisable for today’s generation”.

Ms James was joined by resident Renate Melinsky, 91, who wrote and illustrated, amongst other books, the much loved Pompi, from which her family read extracts at the event.

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Resident Irene Brook, 97, said: “It was amazing to see how many stories from my time are still classics now. Children should read, children should always read”.

Ms James added: “I really enjoyed the event and the children sharing their books.

"Meeting Renate and hearing an extract read from her book was also a pleasure”.