It follows Shakespeare Martineau’s support of the 17th annual Stratford Literary Festival, which took place in May. The firm sponsored two events – a talk by Polly Toynbee, a political commentator and Guardian journalist, and a sold-out event with Rosen, a former Children’s Laureate – as well as the festival’s schools outreach programme, whereby a local author will visit local schools and help engage young children in reading.

Annie Ashworth, trustee and festival director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Shakespeare Martineau as festival sponsors. The firm’s support enables us to carry out our important outreach work. A love of reading can change lives and life outcomes and is the centre of what we do. We hope this will be the start of a long partnership.”

Andrew Smith, head of Shakespeare Martineau’s Stratford-upon-Avon hub, added: “We are a certified B Corporation, meaning we are committed to using business as a force for good and it is vital that we back local causes that make a real difference to the lives of those within our community.

“This was our first time sponsoring the Stratford Literary Festival and its schools outreach programme – two crucial events on our doorstep that celebrate the power of words and literature. We hope pupils at the primary schools thoroughly enjoy reading Michael Rosen’s magical and award-winning book, The Big Dreaming, for decades to come.”