If you’re out and about in Epsom next week you could find yourself walking away with a free novel, thanks to an event aimed at getting people reading again.

Tuesday, April 23, is St. George’s Day and has been designated World Book Night because it also marks the birthday of William Shakespeare.

Launched in 2011, the event is a celebration of reading and aims to spreading awareness of its benefits. 

The Charity World Book Night recruits 20,000 volunteer ‘Givers’ every year  to give out a total  400,000 free books to people of all ages who may not regularly read. 

Each volunteer gives away 20 copies of one of the pre-selected 20 books pre-selected. During the day and evening there will be a variety of events in and around Epsom where they will seek to inspire adults and students, light readers and non readers.

The Ashley Centre has embraced the charitable occasion and will welcome local volunteer Jan Taylor into the centre who will seek out new readers among the shoppers.

The Island, by Victoria Hislop is one of the 20 titles being given away.

Ms Hislop said: "I am totally thrilled that The Island has been included as one of the titles this year.  There’s nothing more thrilling than losing yourself in a book.

"Reading transports me out of myself and takes me into other worlds and other minds.

"To be part of a massive incentive to spread the pleasure of books and reading is an enormous privilege for a writer.’

For more information see www.worldbooknight.org and visit Epsom Library to learn more about this year’s titles being given away.