The Bard of Barnsley will entertain guests as they help raise money for literacy charity Reading Matters at an event in Bradford on Friday.

Poet Ian McMillan (pictured), who is a patron of the Yorkshire charity, will address more than 150 people at the Midland Hotel.

Last year’s gala dinner raised £8,000 for Reading Matters, an organisation that runs literacy training and mentoring programmes in schools and specialises in one-to-one support to motivate children and young people to reach their potential through networks of trained volunteer mentors and work with education professionals, parents and carers.

Reading Matters CEO Rachel Kelly said proceeds from this year’s dinner would support the charity’s work to raise literacy standards amongst young people.

She added: “Our own experience has found that young, struggling and reluctant readers respond well to other young people.

“Our Reading Leaders programme gives young people the skills to motivate and encourage their fellow students, helping them grow in confidence and ability.

“Ian is always hugely supportive of our work and we are delighted that he will be entertaining our gala dinner guests.”

Tickets are £40 each, including drinks reception, dinner and a live band. Tables are available for 10 or 12. To book tickets call Reading Matters on 01274 692219.