More than 5,000 children from across South Gloucestershire have participated in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

The annual event was held on the theme of ‘Mischief Makers’ and inspired by children's magazine The Beano which celebrates its 80th anniversary this year.

Young readers helped Beano characters to solve puzzles, follow clues and discover treasure.

Those who completed the challenge of reading six books were presented with medals and certificates at Patchway Library on Wednesday, September 12.

Councillor Rachael Hunt, chair of South Gloucestershire Council, made the presentation.

“The Summer Reading Challenge in libraries is a great idea. Children’s reading can ‘dip’ during the long summer holidays but taking part in the Challenge keeps children reading and developing their skills and confidence, so that they return to school ready to learn.

"My congratulations go to all the children who have taken part this year,” she said.

Josh, aged nine, collected his medal at the ceremony, he said: “I think the Reading Challenge is great fun and helps me to read more, even on holiday.”

Parent Catherine Curley, added: “My children have loved taking part in the Reading Challenge – it has encouraged my daughter to read more at school."

Summer Reading Challenge volunteers have been on hand throughout the summer to help children take part and were also awarded with certificates.

Volunteer Stephanie Palmer said: “I’ve loved working with the children this summer, the activities are great and were clearly engaging which I think encouraged them to keep reading.

Children can find new books to read and share recommendations with other readers

at summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.