WORCESTER MP Robin Walker who donated books to a city hostel earlier this year has returned to see what benefit they have made.

Mr Walker, who is a member of the Select Committee on Business Innovation and Skills, has been taking part in an Inquiry into Adult Literacy and Numeracy which highlighted the high need for literacy support among the homeless.

As part of the inquiry he took evidence from literacy campaigners and educators including Libby Coleman, author of “Yes we can Read”, a specialist book designed to encourage adult learners and help those with dyslexia.

The MP visited St Pauls Hostel earlier this year and met with their creative group to present them with certificates for some of the work they had been doing with Centrepoint’s Lifewise scheme and donated two copies of “Yes we can read” to the hostel.

Yesterday (Friday) he returned and spoke to the literacy coordinator, Gerry Lowman, who gave positive feedback about what the books were achieving.

Gerry Lowman, from St Pauls Hostel, said: “The book, “Yes we can read” was an ideal selection by Robin Walker to give for World Book night as many clients referred to me for literacy support, after being given a basic adult test for dyslexia, are shown to be moderately or severely dyslexic.

"This reading scheme should help individuals build confidence in their reading ability and consequently move forwards more positively with their lives.”

Mr Walker handed over six Quick Reads including one by Lindsey Davis, one of his own favourite authors and someone who recently visited Worcester to speak to the Battle of Worcester Society.

“One of the most important findings of our Adult Literacy inquiry has been the need to improve help and support to homeless and vulnerable people with literacy problems," he said.

"It has been really inspiring to meet with members of St Pauls’ creative group and see the work that they are doing."