TAVISTOCK-based charity Book Bus is holding an 'open office' day on Wednesday, October 10, to recruit volunteers who would like to hop on board their international educational programme.

Based at the Paddons Row office of travel specialists Venture Co, who recruit the volunteers and arrange the logistics of travel, the open day includes an illustrated presentation at 1pm, repeated at 6pm, for anyone who may be thinking of joining as a volunteer.

The Book Bus Foundation aims to spread literacy and the joy of reading to children and has been a real success, operating in Zambia, Malawi and Ecuador.

The Book Buses tour schools, hospitals and orphanages to promote reading and storytelling to children who would otherwise have little or no access to books.

Each bus has a permanent local crew and space for eight volunteers who work as reading mentors. Most volunteers visit for 14 days, others for up to four months. All the Book Buses carry unique illustrations by renowned children's illustrator Quentin Blake.

Jane Downing, a Plymouth special needs teacher, who will be joining the Book Bus in Malawi in November, said:  'I am so excited about this trip, it combines my love of travel but with helping others too, I feel I will really be giving something back.  From reading about the great experiences other volunteers have had, I just can't wait.'

All volunteers are welcomed, whatever their age or background.

Mark Davison, of VentureCo, and secretary of Book Bus, added: 'We welcome aboard individuals, friends, couples and families. Previous volunteers' backgrounds have ranged from teachers to a banker, plumbers, lawyers and even a shepherd and his wife.

For details call