Sheffield United defender Andy Taylor is used to reading an attack down the right wing, but the left-back has now turned his attentions to helping youngsters with their literacy.

Taylor visited St.Theresa's Catholic Primary School in Sheffield as part of United's Best Book Forward initiative.

The programme, part of the national Reading Matters scheme, is being sponsored by the Sheffield office of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC).

The firm of accountants also provided members of staff to join Andy in reading to pupils at the school.

Best Book Forward arranges for adult mentors to support primary school pupils with their literacy.

Three schools in Sheffield - St Theresa's, St Catherine's and Hucklow - have already signed up to take part.

Staff from PwC and United will work with kids throughout the season to improve their reading.

The mentors will help youngsters improve social skills, as well as self-confidence and self-esteem.

The Blades' Head of Community Sue Beeley said: "We are using the players and staff to support and encourage reading amongst youngsters.

"It is a way of providing role models to show the importance of good literacy skills."

Natalie Ward from PwC added: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to work alongside Sheffield United to jointly support the Reading Matters programme.

"Working on a one-to-one basis, along with the presence of some local football heroes, will be beneficial and inspirational to the children.

"It is very rewarding to see them grow and develop in confidence and we hope they each begin to gain a greater enjoyment of reading, which will help them now and in the future.

"Supporting the local community has always been high on our agenda at PwC and this is just one of many local projects we have planned."

Head teacher at St Theresa's Pat Nelis said: "We are very fortunate at St Theresa's because Sheffield United and PricewaterhouseCoopers are serious about their community responsibilities.

"What better way to raise the profile of our community than being good role models, encouraging and supporting our young children to read to a high level."

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