Summer reading fun

A GROUP of young bookworms were all smiles this week as they were rewarded for a summer full of reading.

The children were all given medals and certificates after taking part in the summer reading challenge at Thurcroft Library.

The theme of this year’s annual challenge was story lab - a celebration of story and the imagination, which saw youngsters taking part in activities in libraries across the borough.

The challenge, now in its 14th year, is designed to help children develop a love of reading, boost their confidence and teach them new skills.

As well as fun games and craft activities, the youngsters aged from four to 11 are encouraged to read six or more books over the summer with incentives along the way and rewards at the end.

The challenge was created by the Reading Agency - an independent charity that works to inspire more young people to read.

Anne Sarrag, from Reading Agency, said research has found children enjoy the challenge.

She added: “It’s a great way to keep them entertained over the holidays, but more importantly, we know that children who take part read more books and read more widely than those who don’t, with potentially life-changing results.”