LIBRARIES in Worcester are celebrating the success of an event that took place over the summer holidays.

Hundreds of children took part in the Questseekers Challenge at the libraries in Warndon, St John’s and Worcester city centre.

Youngsters were invited to read six books during the summer as part of the Reading Agency’s nationwide challenge.

A spokesperson from the Reading Agency said: “It promoted the library as a place of wonder and excitement, where librarians can offer children invaluable advice and guidance to help them through their quest.”

Councillor Alwyn Davies presented medals to the youngsters in Warndon who managed the feat. More than 130 children in Warndon took part, getting stickers, bookmarks and membership cards along the way to encourage them to finish the challenge. There were also fun activities throughout the summer to keep children learning and happy during the six-week break.

The challenge was completed by 87 children.

Lynne Shave, Warndon library manager, said: “It’s great to see so many children taking part and we look forward to being inundated next summer.”

St John’s library had 74 children completing the challenge. They were given their medals by Coun Derek Prodger.

Nearly 150 children completed the challenge at Worcester’s main library. Mayor Andrew Roberts and Coun Mary Drinkwater presented the medals.

Philip Gretton, the county council’s cabinet member for adult and community services, said: “Reading for pleasure is so important for a child’s education and the fact that it’s free to borrow books from the library means anyone can do it.”