Bradford's Year of Literacy is drawing to a close but education chiefs say the seeds have been sewn to help raise standards across the district.

The year-long campaign aimed at improving basic skills and developing partnerships between schools, parents, businesses and community organisations has been hailed a huge success.

So much so that the good work over the last 12 months means Bradford is off to a flying start in preparing for the National Year of Reading.

Bradford Council Education Committee chairman Councillor Jim Flood said: "The Prime Minister believes, as I do, that you can't beat a good story. The Government has recognised that where Bradford leads the nation should follow and has made next year the National Year of Reading.

"I have been struck by the levels of imagination and creativity which have shone through during the last year and I hope the momentum we have built up can be sustained."

The Year of Literacy, backed by the Telegraph & Argus, featured a wide range of high-profile events, competitions and projects.

The campaign's aim was to inspire children to read by developing links among local communities. Themes ranged from theatre and poetry to heritage and sport.

Jen Kilyon, the LEA's adviser on language and literacy, said: "The Government's National Year of Reading campaign is very much along the same lines as our own Year of Literacy.

"The exciting news is that we're one step ahead because we've already done the groundwork and developed community partnerships. The aim of our campaign was to raise awareness of the importance of literacy

"There are no graphs or charts measuring its success but it won't be long before we start to reap the rewards.

"The campaign was only meant to run until July. However, it is vital that we continue to develop even further the new skills learned and links forged."

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