The Bookstart Bear joined Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne and very young readers at the Eastleigh library to celebrate National Bookstart Day on Friday 9th October.
The Bear is pictured here with young admirers and a Bookstart pack containing books and other materials that are available to every youngster.
"Bookstart is a great initiative to encourage young people to enjoy books from as early an age as possible. Judging by Eastleigh's youngsters, it's a great success" said Chris Huhne.
"Reading opens up windows on worlds that we could not otherwise enjoy or understand, and this scheme really helps build up enthusiasm" said Chris.
The Bookstart Bear travels around the country spreading the word that books and reading are fun, and to encourage children to enjoy stories with their parents and carers even before they can read.
Bookstart is an independent charity that aims to provide a free pack of books to every baby in the UK, to inspire, stimulate and create a love of reading that will give children a flying start in life.
Follow the party's activity on...