PUPILS attempted to break a world record for the world's largest reading lesson.

Year 7 and 8 students at Upton Court Grammar School participated in the Guinness World Record attempt on Friday last week, coinciding with National Book Day.

Observed by independent adjudicators, 280 pupils listened to the first two chapters from JK Rowling's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows as part of the national attempt.

School principal, Mercedes Hernandez Estrada, said "Our students desire to break this record joined to their passion for literature made it possible for us to beat the previous record and set the bar high for future contenders."

Although final numbers have yet to be confirmed, organisers expect around 20,000 students took part at around 75 schools across England.

The figure would beat the previous record of 2,604 students in an event held in Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates in May.