JK Rowling wants fans to young readers to party for charity

JK ROWLING has urged her army of young readers to stage a worldwide birthday party next month to raise money for disadvantaged children.

Lumos, the charitable organisation co-founded by the Harry Potter writer, has earmarked International Children's Day on 1 June for a major fundraising drive.

Money raised will go to disadvantaged children living in institutions across Europe, after Rowling was moved by the plight of orphans in former communist countries.

The Light a Birthday Candle for Lumos Campaign asks people from across the world to host a birthday party in support of this effort, as well as lighting a candle for the children.

A spokesman for the charity said: "Lumos works to put a stop to the systematic institutionalisation of disadvantaged children across Eastern and Central Europe. Year after year, the staff who look after children in these large residential institutions cannot give them the one-to-one attention that they so desperately need.

"Lumos is asking families, friends, employees and community groups to raise vital funds by hosting a 'birthday' party, lighting a candle, baking and bringing cakes to work, or by downloading a virtual candle and making a donation via mobile phones."

The funds raised will go towards Lumos' work, helping move children out of institutions and into family-based care.

The name "Lumos" is believed to come from Rowling's Harry Potter books.