THE printed word is being brought to life for Durham school pupils thanks to creation sacks.

Reception class pupils at Finchale Primary School can develop their reading by dipping into 40 sacks which contain props to help illustrate a range of stories.

Professional storyteller Chris Bostock helped launch the scheme by visiting the school and used the sacks to spin tales.

Headteacher David Fry said: "We have been using the sacks on a trial basis and we know it helps with their ability to understand a story and re-tell it."