BOOK lovers donating pre-loved publications can benefit from a discount on new purchases during a charity initiative.

This summer, Swindon-based WH Smith is teaming up with Marie Curie to launch The Big Readcycle, which will see people able to donate their pre-loved books at collection points in WH Smith and Marie Curie stores across the country in exchange for a 25 per cent discount voucher to spend on books.

This week, staff at the Swindon head office, along with representatives from Marie Curie, launched the campaign with a cake sale, raffle and book collection, which was hailed a great success and helped bring the campaign target of 30,000 donated books by August 27 one step closer.

Marie Curie chief executive, Dr Jane Collins, said: “We’re excited to be partnering with WHSmith for The Big Readcycle. It is always fulfilling to share a book that you’ve read and loved with someone else and this campaign means that people can do that knowing that they are also making a positive difference for those living with a terminal illness and their loved ones.”

Books donated over the course of the campaign will be sold in the 190 Marie Curie stores across the UK, with the money raised going towards helping the charity provide care for people living with a terminal illness.

Marie Curie offer expert care, guidance and support to help people get the most from the time they have left. It costs £20 to provide an hour of nursing, which makes every book donated important.

Follow @WHSmith and @MarieCurieUK on Twitter or visit www.facebook.com/mariecurieuk.

For more information on Marie Curie and to find out how you can get involved in fundraising, visit mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved.