Everton star surprises pupils for World Book Day

Children at a Merseyside primary school were thrilled to get a surprise visit from Everton star Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall for World Book Day.

The midfielder arrived at Much Woolton Catholic Primary School in Liverpool on Thursday as a special guest at the school's "secret reader sessions" - where pupils listen to a story being read before asking questions to guess the reader's identity.

The footballer read an extract from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone to a blindfolded group of pupils aged 7-11, before the blindfolds came off and the pupils began cheering in excitement.

"The kids were excited and it's a nice feeling when they see you and react like that," Dewsbury-Hall said.

It was not long before the children - who are part of Everton's School Supporters' Club programme - became suspicious of Dewsbury-Hall's identity.

As the questions began to roll in from the curious class, the Premier League star revealed his favourite place in the city was the Hill Dickinson Stadium and his favourite colour was blue.

Dewsbury-Hall said he "really enjoyed" the experience, despite some initial nerves.

"I read a bit of Harry Potter to the class and it was a bit nerve wracking - I've not read aloud for a while," he said.

He continued: "The Harry Potter films are my favourite of all time and the books are even better.

"Nowadays I like to read non-fiction as I still love to learn. I read a lot of autobiographies, and a lot of business books and motivational books, too.

"The important thing with books is choosing something you enjoy.

"Reading is a great way to relax and it also helps us learn more about the world, so it's such a good habit to get into."

Assistant head teacher Clare Wilson said: "For many of our pupils, meeting an Everton player was very inspiring.

"It shows them that learning, reading and following your passions all go hand in hand.

"We're really grateful to Everton for taking the time to visit our school and support World Book Day - it means a lot to the children and the wider school community."

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