Readathon numbers double

Empire Bay Public School has double the number of students entered in this year's MS Readathon than last year, according to NSW readathon manager Ms Corinne Dickinson.

"Empire Bay Public School has had 44 students register for the MS Readathon which is double the number from 2006; a wonderful effort," Ms Dickinson said.

She said the school had the third largest number of entrants on the Central Coast, raised more than $1000 and read 281 books.

Ms Dickinson said other Central Coast schools with a "strong support" of the MS Readathon included Ettalong Beach Public School.

"So far there have been 957 entrants from the Central Coast region so there is a lot of interest from local students who have commenced their MS Readathon reading and fundraising.

"Close to $10,000 has already been raised by these keen bookworms through their online fundraising efforts.

"If you've read for the MS Readathon during June, it's vital that you collect and return your sponsorship money," said MS Readathon National Manager Mr Anthony Cammell.

Multiple sclerosis interferes with the brain's ability to control functions such as seeing, walking and talking.

The disease has "no known cause or cure".

It is usually diagnosed in the prime of life, between the ages of 20 and 40, and strikes three times as many women as men.

For more information, telephone 1300 677 323.

Press release, 3, 4 Jul 2007 Tracey Galloway, Corrine Dickinson, MS Readathon