YOUNGSTERS at Holy Trinity Primary School in Taunton have been enjoying reading lessons with a difference.

Two friendly pooches or reading dogs as they are known, have been giving providing children with a listening ear.

Pupils in both key stage one and two can read to the dogs, which is a comforting experience as the dogs are non-critical listeners.

Fiona, from Holy Trinity Primary School, said the dogs have been a huge success.

"We have two dogs coming in once a week, with one going to key stage one and the other to key stage two," she said.

"It's a fairly new idea that has been promoted in schools across the country and it means that children have someone non-critical to read to.

"It's shown to be a rewarding and pleasurable activity for those involved and helps the pupils gain confidence with their reading skills.

"We have 16 participants in key stage two and they love it.

"The dogs have been really well behaved and it's a very successful idea.

"Obviously the children are given the option as to whether they want to take part.

"It's very good and works really well."