Heswall's Linghams bookshop launches crowdfunder to place a copy of Marcus Rashford book in each of 3000 pairs of young hands

Sue Porter, owner of Linghams on Telegraph Road, believes in the power of the written word, and in the power of the UK's children's champion, Marcus Rashford.

Marcus, whose support of FairShare enabled the charity to distribute more than 21 million free meals to children and families much in need of them, has also created a Book Club bearing his name, a club which aims to encourage and nurture a love of reading amongst youngsters.

Sue's campaign draws some of these threads together. She says: "I am looking to donate 3000 copies of Marcus' book 'You Are A champion' to The Hive, in Birkenhead.

"The Hive is an amazing charity with over 3000 children on its books, and has done an amazing job during the pandemic.

"They help inspire the kids who attend, help their wellbeing and mental health and keep reminding them they are already champions - they just don't know it yet!

"This really fits the bill nicely with Marcus' book and what he is trying to achieve. Birkenhead is an area where one in two children live in poverty, so The Hive plays a key role. It's officially known as the Wirral Youth Zone, and is a purpose built facility for young people aged 8 to 19 and up to 25 with disabilities."

Written with journalist Carl Anka, 'You Are a Champion' is full of stories from Marcus Rashford's own life, along with advice and top-tips from performance psychologist Katie Warriner.

It shows kids how to:

- Be comfortable with who you are – you can't be a champion until you're happy being you!

- Practise like a champion

- Navigate adversity in a positive way

- Use your voice and stand up for others