A production company is helping to encourage more people to enjoy a lifelong love of reading through its support for family storytelling festivals and the introduction of its own book nook.
PH Production Services has made a £4,000 donation and is providing support with event infrastructure for Tales in the Park, a series of free events delivered by the National Literacy Trust in Stoke-on-Trent over the school summer holidays, in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent Libraries.
The events form part of the National Year of Reading 2026 and take place in a different city park each week, feature storytelling, creative activities and outdoor fun. Children also receive a free book.
PH Production Services is also preparing to launch King Street Studios Book Nook, which will be a permanent community “bring a book, swap a book” space at its Newcastle-under-Lyme headquarters and community venue.
The team is also inviting members of the community to donate books they no longer need to help the collection continue to grow.
Managing Director Peter Herbert said: “Stories have an incredible ability to spark imagination, build confidence and create moments of escape. As an emergency foster carer, I’ve seen first-hand just how powerful books can be in helping children process emotions, discover new ideas and simply enjoy being children. Reading opens doors, encourages curiosity and gives young people opportunities that stay with them for life.
“That’s why supporting Tales in the Park and creating our own Book Nook felt like such a natural fit for us. If we can help even a few more children discover the magic of books, inspire a lifelong love of reading or simply encourage families to spend time sharing stories together, then we’ll have achieved something really worthwhile.”
Lois Bateman, manager for the National Literacy Trust in Stoke-on-Trent, said: “Tales in the Park is all about bringing families together to enjoy stories, have fun and make special memories during the summer holidays. We know that children are more likely to develop a love of reading when it feels enjoyable and connects with the things that interest them.
“Every year, it’s wonderful to see our city’s parks filled with families discovering new books and sharing stories together.
“We’re excited to celebrate our fifth year and can’t wait to welcome families back for another fantastic summer.”
Tales in the Park is now in its fifth year. Last summer, the free festivals welcomed more than 5,300 visitors and helped register 590 new library members.
This summer’s remaining events take place from 11am until 3pm on:
- Tuesday 4 August – Yeaman Street Recreational Ground
- Friday 7 August – Fenton Park
- Tuesday 11 August – Longton Park
- Friday 14 August – Burslem Park
