YOUNG bookworms met Bolton Wanderers star Jussi Jaaskelainen at the Reebok Stadium this week.

The popular keeper is the club's reading champion and he was hearing from youngsters who have been reading books chosen by Premier League stars over the past three months.

Previous Wanderers reading champions have included star striker Kevin Davies and captain Kevin Nolan.

Jussi's book of choice was the Pirates of the Caribbean, a book which, he says, is popular with his own children.

The Premier League started its Reading Stars campaign six years ago to encourage children and adults to read more.

Jussi said: "Reading a book keeps me occupied and is a great way of relaxing on the team coach.

"It is essential for children to start reading at an early age. Books can really capture their imagination and can play a huge part in helping in their education in a way which sitting in front of a TV or games console can never achieve."

Blackrod Library, High Street Library in Daubhill and Harwood Library each chose children from local schools to take part in the campaign.

They read books chosen by their favourite players and then presented reviews of the stories.

Wanderers held the event at the Reebok Stadium to congratulate the reading stars on their hard work and effort. Children were awarded match tickets and Wanderers shirts, and were also given a tour of the stadium.

Blackrod Church School pupils, Elizabeth Worrall-Kay, aged seven, and Ellie Addison, aged eight, told their teachers they loved every minute of the Reebok treat.

Head teacher, James Royle, said: "The kids have been really excited. They had a great time and really enjoyed meeting Jussi."