A dyslexic father has received national recognition for his efforts in inspiring young boys to read.

Chris Kraszewski was named one of Britain's top 20 Reading Champions by the National Reading Campaign.

He was nominated after becoming involved in a reading project piloted last year at Manor Hall Middle School in Southwick, where his nine-year-old son Jordan is a pupil.

The father-of-three, who works in the leisure division of Nestle, had always struggled with reading but was only diagnosed as dyslexic as an adult.

He said: "I have no memories of anyone reading to me and I was very disappointed that I was not given the help I needed at school.

"I always had problems with reading until a work colleague encouraged me to do something about it and go to classes.

"It's so important for young children to have support and encouragement from parents, siblings and relatives.

"Not only is it a chance to share quality time on a one-to-one basis, it also gives the child an opportunity to show how well they are doing and to receive lots of praise and encouragement.

"Reading can open doors for a child, to stretch his or her vocabulary and imagination."

Mr Kraszewski was actively involved in the Reading Buddies project at Manor Hall, which aimed to improve reading standards among a group of Year 4 boys by engaging their fathers, carers, uncles or older brothers as role models.

He has also been involved in the drive for a new school library.

Head teacher Judy Grevett, one of those who nominated Mr Kraszewski, said: "I am delighted Chris' support for his son and the school has been recognised.

"He is a positive role model for so many children who struggle with reading and welcome further motivation.

"Our Reading Buddies project is one of a range of initiatives to further improve standards within our school."