Families are being encouraged to pick up a free copy of one of Britain’s best-loved comics as TGJones launches a nationwide giveaway to celebrate the National Year of Reading.
The retailer has teamed up with Beano to produce an exclusive edition of the comic, with 50,000 free copies available in stores across the UK from Thursday, 16 July until Thursday, 23 July, while stocks last.
The special edition has a Summer of Sports theme and features new adventures starring Dennis the Menace and his faithful dog Gnasher, alongside appearances from a host of sporting personalities.
In the comic’s featured story, Dennis and Gnasher’s school sports day turns into a chaotic sporting extravaganza, with National Year of Reading ambassadors Joe Wicks, Tim Henman, Georgia Stanway and Jodie Cunningham all making guest appearances. BBC commentator John Murray also joins in the fun.
Readers will also find money-saving vouchers inside the comic, including £1.50 off a future issue of the Beano and 50 per cent off the official Beano Joke Book when purchased online using a promotional code.
The giveaway forms part of the National Year of Reading 2026, a Department for Education initiative supported by the National Literacy Trust and a range of partners, including TGJones.
The campaign aims to inspire more people to make reading part of everyday life by connecting books, comics and magazines with their hobbies and interests.
Research cited by the retailer suggests reading is enjoying renewed popularity among young people.
According to the National Literacy Trust, more than a third of children and teenagers aged between eight and 18 now say they enjoy reading in their free time – the first increase recorded in five years.
Separate polling commissioned by TGJones found children aged between five and 12 spend an average of 6.8 hours a week reading, ahead of time spent gaming, playing outside or chatting with friends.
The survey also found that more than half of children want to read because they enjoy learning new things, while colourful book covers and recommendations from friends remain strong influences.
Mike Stirling, Beano’s Director of Mischief, said comics continue to play an important role in helping children develop a love of reading.
“My job is mainly listening to kids and filling Beano every week with the stories, characters and mischief they love. Comics make reading fun and that’s a superpower worth celebrating.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with TGJones and supporting the National Year of Reading to help introduce as many kids as we can to the joy of picking up a Beano.”
Alex Willson, Chief Executive of TGJones, said encouraging children to read remained a priority for the retailer.
“Reading is so important for a child’s development, and as partners of the National Year of Reading 2026 we are continuously striving to encourage more children to pick up their favourite book or comic.
“Our partnership with Britain’s most beloved comic is just one more way to bring bookshelves to life across the UK.”
The free comics will be available from all TGJones stores between 16 and 23 July, with copies offered on a first come, first served basis while stocks last.
