EVERY summer Somerset County Council’s libraries are buzzing with children taking part in The Reading Agency’s ‘Summer Reading Challenge’, and this year’s Big Friendly Read, has proved to be no exception.

The Big Friendly Read has been inspired by celebrations surrounding the 100 year anniversary of Roald Dahl and also coincides with the launch of the new film of Roald Dahl’s classic book The BFG.

Children all over Somerset have been flocking to their local libraries to read their favourite books and gain specially commissioned Dahl themed cards, medals and prizes for reading up to six books over the school summer holidays.

The Summer Reading Challenge takes place every year during the holidays and requires children to sign up at their local library, and then read six library books of their choice to complete the challenge.

There are exclusive rewards to collect along the way, and it’s free to take part.

The Summer Reading Challenge website helps children to keep track of their reading, find new books to read, and take part in competitions and play games.

Cllr David Hall, Cabinet Member with a responsibility for libraries said: “This is a great opportunity for children and young people to further their reading skills in a fun and engaging way, and I would encourage all parents to get their children involved if they can.”

Burnham-on-Sea Library were one of the participating libraries and as an eyecare practice with a keen interest in childrens' visual development David Bull Optometrists were only too happy to be involved and to encourage children to read.

On proof of reading the six books, a child was awarded a medal by the library, and was entered into a prize draw for gift vouchers from GW Hurley of Burnham.

There were more than 60 entrants and three prizewinners were drawn, who collected their certificates and medals at David Bull Optometrists in the High Street on Monday.