Young people across Sefton were invited to take part in a competition and use their imagination to write modern fairy tales, rewrite fables and create stories about fantastic beasts this year.

Bootle Children’s Literary Festival, delivered by YKids, a charity dedicated to encouraging young people to believe that they can change the world and make a difference, celebrated its fourth year in 2023.

Through a grant from One Vision Housing’s Community Development Fund, Ykids were able to publish and distribute 800 copies of a book, including the magical tales created by young authors in Sefton, to local schools and community groups.

In a celebration, the children were invited to sign copies of their book alongside special guest and acclaimed children’s author Frank Cotrell Boyce.

Claire Morgans, a spokesperson from Ykids said:

“We were delighted to work with One Vision Housing to deliver the Bootle Children’s Literary Festival. Thank you for supporting the festival and making the publication possible.”

One Vision Housing provides over 13.6k homes across the North West, and as part of The Sovini Group works closely with partner organisations like Ykids to forge a better future for communities.

Ian Mitchell, Managing Director at One Vision Housing said:

“As part of The Sovini Group, we are committed to creating opportunities and changing lives. We are thrilled to have supported Bootle Children’s Literary Festival, which supports our vision of a better future by encouraging children to get creative. The stories told throughout this book are incredibly imaginative and have been a joy to read – well done to everyone involved.”

A total of £15,000 is available each year for voluntary and community groups through One Vision Housing’s Community Development Fund. Applications can be submitted at any time throughout the year.