A dad from Kent is bringing smiles to childrens' faces with his new venture, Bedtime Stories with Spider-man.

James Spain, from Hawkinge, near Folkestone, will read a book every night dressed as the classic superhero and stream it live on Facebook.

He hopes the story time will provide a moment of happiness to children and parents alike during this time of uncertainty and worry amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Schools, shops and restaurants have now closed and many people are working from home in a bid to stop the spread of Covid-19.

Mr Spain, 35, said: "I was inspired by my two year old daughter. She loves a bedtime story.

"I thought I would put a video up for friends and family.

"A few people watched it and it started to get a bit of reaction."

For last night's story, Mr Spain, who repairs medical equipment for the NHS, read Dinosaurs Don't Draw by Elli Woollard.

So far the video has been viewed more than 44,000 times.

Mr Spain said: "I started with the videos last Wednesday but it exploded last night. I had 44,500 views and 120 friend requests.

"I've had mums messaging me saying well done and thank you and children writing letters.

"It's very magical to know it's making a difference, bringing a smile to a child's face.

"I couldn't have done it without the support of my wife."

Mr Spain, who is married to Joanne and dad to Amelia, 2, chose to dress as Spider-man as he is his favourite superhero.

He said: "I'm 35 but I'm still a big kid at heart. I've loved Spider-man since I was eight.

"I think children respond to him and listen to him too."

Mr Spain has now set up a Facebook page dedicated to his stories.

Comments on the page from parents include: "Your story last night made my four year old son soooo happy!

"What a lovely idea and thank you! He’s been talking about it all morning this morning. We’ll be tuning in tonight."

Another parent said: "Thanks so much, my nearly five year old son loved it last night and is so excited for tonight already."

To get involved, search 'Bedtime Stories with Spider-man' on Facebook. Mr Spain aims to post a new video at 6.30pm every night.

Elsewhere in the district, care homes are inviting children to write to residents who are facing long periods without visitors due to restrictions being in place.

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