Pupils at a Waltham Abbey school have each received a free book to mark the start of term as part of a new initiative.

Year 7 students at King Harold Academy had chosen a book of their choice from 17 titles at the start of the autumn term, which arrived this week as part of the BookBuzz scheme.

Organised through the national book charity Book Trust’s, the project aims to promote positive attitudes towards reading for pleasure and enjoyment and develop a reading culture at the school.

School librarian, Giselle Morris, said: "It’s been such a pleasure to witness the excitement the Year 7 students have shown at choosing and receiving their new books.

"There is such a great range of titles from established and up-and-coming authors.

"The students have absolutely loved it, and what’s even better is that they already have a keen enthusiasm and affection towards books and reading."