TODDLERS were introduced to books at their local library yesterday.

A family fun event was being held at Owton Manor Library and Community Centre, in Hartlepool's Wynyard Road, to celebrate National Bookstart Day.

Based on the theme of animal antics, the event included face painting, story-telling, craft activities and badge making.

It was organised by the town's Sure Start South initiative, which involves health, education and social care staff working closely together with the parents of children up to the age of four to ensure the youngsters flourish when they start school.

The day was also to mark the launch of Bookstart Plus, an initiative which provides a free book for children in certain areas of the town, before they are 14 months old.

Health visitors calling at the homes of parents with 14-month-old children will be distributing leaflets about Bookstart Plus, which will include a voucher that can be taken to a local library and exchanged for a free book.

Parents will also be able to obtain their child's first library card when they collect their free books