OWLS are helping children to discover a passion for books.

Pupils at Our Lady’s Catholic School in Clincton View, Widnes, met Mango the barn owl and his feathered friends as part of a special project.

There were squeals of joy as the birds flew over their heads.

Psychologist Anita Morris from Cronton has developed a unique way to encourage children to read for pleasure.

She founded Hack Back, a social enterprise which uses interaction with birds of prey to inspire youngsters.

Anita said: “Research has shown that children who read for pleasure do better later in life.

“Yet nearly 20 per cent of children have never received a book as a gift.

“If you use a novel approach you are far more likely to have a great impact.”

She read a book about barn owls called Dawn Until Dusk, written by Martin Bradley with year two pupils.

The children then met owls Murray, Idris and Mango.

Anita said: “Mango the barn owl is the star of the show. He flies around.

“Then Idris, an African spotted eagle owl flies low over their heads.”

Pupils were invited to have their picture taken holding Murray, a tame owl who has met countless celebrities including Jimmy Carr and Dara O’Briain on the 8 out of 10 Cats comedy show.

Every child was given a book containing their owl photograph, thanks to sponsorship from Widnes Rotary Club and Chapelfield Community Centre.

Teachers will continue to encourage pupils to read and write stories about owls.

Anita added: “Each child wrote me a letter saying how much they loved the session.

“They were so excited.

“Using birds has an amazing impact. Hopefully they will find more books and develop a love of reading.”

Anita also uses her owls with young people with autism and learning difficulties, vulnerable women, older people and cancer patients.