CHILDREN who completed this year’s Summer Reading Challenge and volunteers who helped make it a success have been celebrated at Downend Library.
South Gloucestershire Council chair Katie Cooper and cabinet member for libraries Sean Rhodes gave medals and certificates to the young readers, who were among more than 5,500 from across the district to take part – reading more than 85,000 books in the process.
This year’s challenge was called Story Garden and focused on stories about nature, the great outdoors and the power of creativity and imagination.
Children collected stickers as they read each book, and those who completed the challenge also earned a voucher for a free swim at their local leisure centre.
Cllr Cooper said: “The challenge is a fantastic way to keep children reading over the summer holidays. It helps to develop their reading skills and confidence so that they return to school ready to learn while supporting their well-being.
“I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to present the children and volunteers with their medals and certificates and hear about the different books they’ve discovered – it’s clear how much they have enjoyed taking part.
“Libraries are brilliant family-friendly places with free access to books and activities throughout the year.”
Parent Lindsey Buckler said: “We love how many options of books our local library has. The children loved moving their characters along and were excited to pick their next read.”