Local children are being invited to join the summer reading challenge.

Aimed at children aged four to 11 years old, the Bracknell Forest Library team are working to put together the annual challenge, including the addition of "marvellous mascots".

The theme of the 2023 challenge revolves around the power of play, sport, games and physical activity.

Children taking part in the challenge will be encouraged to keep their minds and bodies active over the summer break.

The reading challenge will introduce children to a host of characters, brought to life by children’s author and illustrator Loretta Schauer, who are to navigate a fictional summer obstacle course and track their reading as they go, rewarded by free incentives including stickers.

Participants will also receive activity challenge cards from the Youth Sport Trust, and an exciting themed book collection, providing children with the opportunity to explore new reading material, develop skills, and discover new interests.

The Summer Reading Challenge has been running since 1999 and helps to improve children’s reading skills and confidence over the summer holidays, making sure they are ready for their return to school.

With the help of local libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge is accessible to all and provides a fun, free activity for children.

In 2022, the Summer Reading Challenge reached 723,184 children and families across the UK, with 608,015 children taking part through their local library service.