REEF Hutt from Okehampton Primary School really is one in a million, after a special visit to Clarence House.

Reef is the one millionth child benificiary of the National Literacy Trust. He has developed a love for reading after attending events organised by Devon County Council's Family Learning and run in conjunction with the trust.

The National Literacy Trust is an independent charity that raises awareness of the importance of literacy, working in communities across the UK. Last week it was celebrating working with one million children, young people and adults since its foundation in 1993.

As part of these celebrations, Reef and his mother, Thelma, along with Family Learning representative Cindy Squire, were invited to a special reception on December 8 at Clarence House.

Hosting the reception was patron for the National Literacy Trust, the Duchess of Cornwall. The Duchess presented Reef with a certificate to mark the occasion.

The trio also got to look around Clarence House, and chat with former Children's Laureate Michael Morpurgo.

Thelma said: 'The experience was absolutely incredible. We were all very nervous when we arrived, and the day was so relaxed.

'It was a small group, and we all got to talk with Her Royal Highness, and she was so nice and welcoming. It felt like a party with friends in their front room.

'Michael Morpurgo was lovely as well. He joked with Reef about how if he didn't behave, "HRH" would lock him in the tower.'

To complete the celebrations, Mr Morpurgo donated a selection of his books for the school library.

He said: 'Young people who have a love of reading and writing are more likely to do well. Research has proved it time and time again. Reading and writing are inextricably linked. 

'A love of reading develops the imagination like nothing can, and fosters an understanding of language that enables young people to become creative independent writers.

'I am delighted to be donating books to the school of the National Literacy Trust's one millionth beneficiary.'