Saturday’s Star Mollie King surprised Seven Stories with their National Lottery Award

Mollie King, from The Saturdays, today broke the fantastic news to children and staff at Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books, that they have been named the UK’s favourite education project.

Mollie made a surprise visit to Newcastle to congratulate all involved in the project on winning a National Lottery Award.

The singer, who was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child and experienced difficulties with reading, joined in the fun at the Centre’s Summer Storytelling picnic.

She said: “It is amazing to see firsthand the fantastic work carried out at Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books.

“Reading and immersing yourself in the excitement and imaginative plots of children’s books can be a real inspiration.

“But I know from my own experience that not all children or adults are in a position to experience this pleasure.

“Seven Stories is a brilliant success story and I am delighted they have been recognised as the nation’s favourite education project in the National Lottery Awards. National Lottery players should be proud that their money is supporting children like this.”

Kate Edwards, Seven Stories’ chief executive said: “This is fantastic news. We are very grateful to everyone who voted for us – to know we are so valued by friends, visitors and supporters from the Northeast and across the UK is thrilling. Seven Stories began with the big idea that Britain needs a place to save, celebrate and share our amazing literary heritage for children. Eight years on, more than a million children and grownups have visited us and made our exhibitions, events and learning programmes such a success.

“As well as being great for Seven Stories, this prize reminds us that books are special and important for children because they have the power to open worlds of imagination in every home. This award will help us to share the magic of children’s books with many more children and families. Thank you.”
Alison Gwynn, Programme Director at Seven Stories, National Centre for Children’s Books, added: “It was a great surprise to have Mollie King join us and a fantastic occasion.

“Our aim is to inspire a love of reading across generations. We encourage everyone taking part to realise their learning and creative potential. National Lottery funding has helped us so much and receiving this award is superb recognition for the hard work of the entire team and, of course, everyone who enjoys our programmes.”