The Queen has spoken of the "joy" reading can give to children as she hosted an event celebrating the 70th anniversary of a leading UK book charity.The reception marking Book Aid International's anniversary at St James's Palace in London was attended by some 100 guests, including the charity's president Nigel Newton and Lady Caroline Simmonds, the daughter of its founder.

The Queen has spoken of the "joy" reading can give to children as she hosted an event celebrating the 70th anniversary of a leading UK book charity.The reception marking Book Aid International's anniversary at St James's Palace in London was attended by some 100 guests, including the charity's president Nigel Newton and Lady Caroline Simmonds, the daughter of its founder.