YOUNG Hartlepool bookworms, who completed a Summer Reading Challenge, received a reward yesterday.

The town's library service ran the challenge as part of its commitment to raise literacy standards.

Children were encouraged to continue practising their reading skills throughout the summer break by visiting their local libraries six times during the holiday to read and review a different book.

They were each given a sticker card to help keep a record of their progress and those who completed the course were invited to the Central Library yesterday, where they were presented with a medal and certificate by Hartlepool United manager Neale Cooper.

Challenge co-ordinator Gillian Slimming said: "All the youngsters who took part in the challenge really enjoyed themselves.

"Books are a lot of fun and lots of great adventures lie within their covers for people of all ages.

"Reading is such a key building block for your future life and career and we certainly hope the young people keep on developing their reading skills in their free time."