A RECORD number of children proved they were real bookworms when they took part in a reading rollercoaster challenge at Stourport Library.

Fifty-four youngsters aged between four and 12 completed the challenge - an increase of nearly 35 per cent on last year.

They had to read six books, chosen by themselves, from the library under six themes - castles, ghosts, jokes and humour, dinosaurs, pirates and space.

The children collected stickers, which were stuck on to a brightly coloured wallet and they had to tell library staff what they thought about each book.

Stourport Mayor, councillor Alan Wood, presented the youngsters with certificates and a medals during a ceremony held at the library on Monday.

Children's librarian, Gill Robinson, said: "We are very pleased that so many children took part and completed the challenge. It is nice to be able to encourage the children to use the local library and to read books and be rewarded for their reading."

The next children's event at the Worcester Street library is a butterfly craft theatre for seven to 11-year-olds next Wednesday.

They will be able to make a puppet and to take part in a show with a professional puppeteer. Tickets are available from the library or by ringing 01299 822866.