Sara Pascoe launches free summer reading scheme on Leeds trains for holiday fun
Aligning with our own Leeds Reads campaign to get the city turning pages, comedian Sara Pascoe has helped launch a massive giveaway of free family activity packs on the rail network this summer
With the school holidays rapidly approaching, keeping the kids entertained without breaking the bank is at the top of every parent's agenda.
While not an official part of our ongoing Leeds Reads campaign, a brilliant new rail initiative has launched this week that aligns perfectly with our mission to get the city's young people reading.
Comedian and author Sara Pascoe was spotted at York and Leeds stations today to kick off a massive joint campaign by four major rail operators - LNER, Northern, Southeastern, and TransPennine Express.
Teaming up with national charity The Reading Agency, the operators are set to hand out tens of thousands of free Summer Reading Challenge activity packs on trains and at stations over the coming months.
The timing could not be more vital.
With the government officially backing 2026 as the National Year of Reading, fresh data from The Reading Agency reveals that 64% of parents worry about their children getting bored over the summer break. Crucially, 68% admitted that the rising cost of summer activities is putting heavy financial pressure on the family budget.
Designed for children aged 4 to 11, the free packs contain a copy of Storytime Magazine, a sticker booklet, activity sheets, and a certificate to keep young minds engaged outside the classroom.
Speaking about the launch, Sara Pascoe - host of the ‘Weirdos Book Club’ podcast - said: "I’ve always loved reading when I’m travelling. It has a brilliant way of making the journey feel like part of the adventure rather than just the bit in between. It was such a joy to surprise children on the train, share stories together and see children getting excited about the books.
“Turning travel time into reading time is a lovely, easy way to keep kids entertained this summer."
The initiative highlights the massive benefits of getting lost in a book. Research shows that 84% of parents believe reading directly supports their child's mental wellbeing, while 87% say it builds emotional skills and confidence during crucial developmental years.
Colette Casey, Customer Experience Director at LNER, added: "We're delighted to continue our support for The National Year of Reading through the launch of our partnership with the Summer Reading Challenge.
“I'm really looking forward to hearing what children travelling on our trains this summer think of these fantastic reading packs."
The free activity packs will be available on board hundreds of participating services and at stations throughout the summer season.
If you are hitting the tracks for a family day out, look out for railcards and family fares to keep costs down - and make sure to grab a pack to keep your own little reading champions inspired on the journey.