Cheshire West and Chester Council’s libraries are have announced the Summer Reading Challenge theme for 2016 is the Roald Dahl-inspired Big Friendly Read.

The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six books during the long summer holiday. There is a different theme each year and children can read any library books they like - fact books, joke books, picture books, e-books or even audio download books.

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There will be rewards including stickers and “rainbow glasses” when they visit the library after reading a couple of titles. There’s a certificate and medal for everyone who reads at least six books.

The council’s Cabinet member for health and wellbeing, Cllr Louise Gittins, said: “Children’s reading can ‘dip’ during the long summer holidays. Children who take part in the Summer Reading Challenge return to school in September as more fluent, confident, happy readers.

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“The Summer Reading Challenge is open to all school children and is designed for all reading abilities. Schools will work with our libraries and give out information to encourage children to take part.”

There will be free animal handling events at most libraries over the summer as well as other exciting things to do including craft events. In addition, many libraries will also be host to Chester Zoo Safari Rangers events.

The official start date for the Summer Reading Challenge is Saturday, July 16.