Hullbridge schoolchildren have been treated to virtual storytelling sessions ahead of celebrating World Book Day today.

The coronavirus pandemic means World Book Day will be celebrated differently this year, with the majority of pupils still being home-schooled.

But Barratt and David Wilson Homes hosted a series of online Zoom sessions for 200 of Riverside Primary School’s pupils, with them diving into a range of terrific tales with a professional storyteller.

Richard York, a member of the Society for Storytelling, took advantage of the wonders of modern technology and read stories to ensure the youngsters could still make the most of World Book Day.

Claire Smith, headteacher at Riverside, was pleased to bring some virtual cheer to the pupils in these tough times.

She said: “Richard’s storytelling was engaging and immersive.

“It was great to see the children’s reactions on screen – from wide-eyed wonder to hiding behind their fingers and laughter.”

Richard – who read tales such as King Leoghaire, his Barber and his Harper, Raven Steals Back the Light and the 12 Wild Geese – feels it is important for World Book Day to still be celebrated in the midst of a global pandemic.

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He said: “It was a delight to work with Riverside.

“Traditional storytelling can give so much to people of all ages, as well as children, and these days it’s more important than ever.

“Their responses show how much the magic of these stories, often passed down over many hundreds of years, can still come through despite the limitations of having to work online rather than the shared experience of being in the room together. It was a great way to celebrate World Book Day.”

Barratt and David Wilson Homes – whose projects include the High Elms Park development in Hullbridge – usually celebrates World Book Day by inviting local school pupils for a storytelling session in its show homes.

Annette Hurst, sales director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties, said: “We have missed inviting the local pupils into our show homes this year but it was wonderful to work with Riverside Primary School to ensure they could still celebrate World Book Day.

“Richard York’s stories captivated everyone involved. It was great to host the virtual sessions as part of a campaign which promotes skills such as reading, writing, listening and creativity.”