The Sun on Sunday has launched a Books for Kids campaign to bring the joy of reading to more families during lockdown.

Running for the next four weeks in conjunction with BookTrust — the UK’s largest children’s reading charity — the title is calling on readers to send in their old children’s books, no matter how ripped and tatty they are.

The Sun on Sunday will then pay to recycle them before BookTrust begins free distribution of bright and colourful new publications carefully chosen by its children’s books experts.

Children’s author and Britain’s Got Talent judge David Walliams, former Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq and X-Factor presenter Dermot O’Leary have all thrown their weight behind the campaign.

The Sun editor-in-chief, Victoria Newton said: “Books are such a vital part of childhood and are more important than ever at this time. Our loyal and generous readers always get behind our campaigns to help those who need it most and this is another cause we are proud to champion.”

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Books fire a child’s imagination, improve literacy and open doors to new worlds, not to mention the positive impact they can have on mental health. That is why we put such an emphasis on reading in schools and why I support this campaign.”

The books will be passed on to youngsters who need them most via schools, children’s centres, food banks, refuges and family support teams. Readers can post their old books or send them via a special 70 percent discounted Hermes collection service without leaving their home.

Find out how to get involved here.