STORY sacks designed to inspire children to read will be launched next week.

The sacks, which have been created by volunteers during the past three months, will be available from the Belmont branch library, in Durham City, from Tuesday, next week.

A story sack is a toolbox containing all the props and characters needed to read or tell a story to a child.

It encourages a child to read and enjoy books. The tools help to develop communication skills while having fun with the toys and games.

Adults and children can explore all kinds of possibilities for the plot, using toys, games and books contained in the story sack..

An audio tape can help the child to follow the story in the book.

As well as an ordinary book, the story sack contains large print and Braille versions of the story.

For further information, telephone 0191-384 3223