Children around the country are being urged to get reading in an attempt to raise much needed funds for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

The MS Readathon, which is now in its 28th year, is Ireland's largest school-sponsored reading initiative. The event will take place from October 9 to November 9 and is run by MS Ireland, the national organisation which provides information, support and services to those affected by MS. 

MS is Ireland's most common disabling neurological condition, affecting around 8,000 people here. It is a chronic disease of the central nervous system, which causes a gradual degeneration of the nerves. This results in a progressive deterioration in various functions controlled by the nervous system, such as vision, speech and movement.

The readathon is MS Ireland's main annual fundraising campaign.

"The readathon is all about enjoying the fun and benefits of reading, while raising funds to directly help people with MS locally. Funds raised by young MS Readathoners support vital services, for example, enabling one-to-one support for those newly diagnosed, physiotherapy and exercise classes to help stay independent, and respite care," explained MS Ireland chief executive, Ava Battles.

Last year's event saw over 15,000 children in 450 schools take part.

"We hope that even more children and schools will get involved this year and help us to support people living with MS in their local communities," Ms Battles said.

Participating schools will be provided with individual certificates and gifts for each reader, as well as school and library awards. Schools are invited to sign up for the readathon here.

For more information on MS, click here or call the MS Information Line on 1850 233 233, Monday to Friday, from 10am to 2pm.