A Wirral-based children’s author has spent the hottest day of the year delivering hundreds of books to children across Liverpool communities.

Natalie Reeves Billing joined forces with Liverpool-based author, Jude Lennon, to assemble and hand deliver 300 free Builder Book boxes filled with books, papercrafts and notebooks.

The authors work together through Split Perspectivz, a social enterprise that aims to make education free and accessible to all children.

Natalie Reeves Billing said: “This has been a labour of love. We set up a little assembly line to create hundreds of Builder Book boxes during the heatwave and it was so exciting to finally get out in the van and deliver them all.

“Families on the lowest incomes have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic, and for some, buying things like books, notepads or pencils for the children is a luxury that there just isn’t the budget for.

“I feel passionately that all children should have access to books and materials to inspire their creativity and alongside Jude Lennon, I’ve been delivering boxes to key locations including Claire House, the Liverpool Six Community Centre and The Drive.”

Builder Book works closely with local business and community centres to encourage learning through imaginative activities.

The authors hope to eventually bring the Builder Books project to other communities in surrounding areas, including Wirral.

Individuals and local businesses can take part in the Builder Books project by becoming a sponsor or donating items such as pencils and notebooks.

Natalie added: “We’re so glad to have had the chance to get these boxes into the hands of children who will benefit from them and to be supporting local businesses, too, as we’re including items made by local people in the boxes.

“A big thank you to everyone who’s supported this project so far.”