Coventry RFC First Team XV were the first on board to kick off the 2008 National Year of Reading, they swapped rugby balls for books to show their full support to the campaign.

The initiative is a year long celebration of all forms of reading, with numerous campaigns and activities taking place nationally and locally to inspire people, young and old, to read more. Coventry RFC players took their books out on to the pitch in the hope of converting others into avid readers.

Photograph by Richard Johnson 

Coventry RFC player, Ricky Whitehall commented: “I like reading, my favourite book is ‘Facing Up’ by Bar Grylls. I would encourage people to get reading because it’s fun and mentally stimulating.’

Fellow Team Mate, Ronnie McLean added: “It’s great to read and expand your mind. I read all the time, in between training. This Year of Reading initiative is perfect – it’s a great idea.”

For more information about the National Year of Reading please visit www.coventry.gov.uk/nyr or call 02476 832 338

Ends.

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Lisa Holberton

Coventry RFC Limited

Photographs by Richard Johnson