Littleborough Pupil Wins Top Prize in MP’s World Book Day Competition

 

Photo: Paul Waugh MP

A nine-year-old pupil from Littleborough has taken top honours in this year’s World Book Day competition, organised by Rochdale MP Paul Waugh.

Matilda Mann, a pupil at Littleborough Community Primary School, was awarded first prize after impressing judges with her review of ‘Box Full of Murders’ by Janice Hallett.

The annual competition invites pupils across Rochdale to share their favourite book and explain why they love it, with the aim of encouraging a lifelong passion for reading.

Matilda received a £40 book voucher as her prize, while her school was also awarded £400 in vouchers for books and stationery. During the presentation, assistant headteacher Mrs Royle accepted the school’s prize.

As part of the tradition, Paul Waugh also announced Matilda’s name in Parliament on World Book Day itself.

This year’s competition was supported by several local businesses, including First Bus, ALF Recruit, Office Supplies Now, Capture Design, and H Bell & Sons, whose sponsorship helped make the event possible.

Two runners-up from Smithy Bridge Primary School and Healey Primary School each received £30 book vouchers, along with additional books for their schools.

Five more pupils from Crossgates, Sandbrook, Milnrow Parish and Littleborough Community Primary Schools were recognised in the Highly Commended category, each winning £10 book vouchers.

As a special surprise, Matilda was also presented with a signed copy of ‘Bear Rescue’ by Hannah Gold personally autographed by the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer.

All winners will be formally presented with their certificates at a ceremony later this month at Rochdale Library.