YOUNG children are to be given free books to encourage them to enjoy reading.

The Bookstart scheme, in Darlington, is being extended to allow more children to enjoy packs of free books.

Until now, the initiative has only been open to babies aged seven to nine months but, thanks to extra Government funding, free books will be given to all children born after October 3, 2001, up to the age of four.

To mark the extension of the scheme and National Bookstart Day, activities will take place in Darlington's Crown Street Library on Friday, October 7.

There will be two baby rhyme-time sessions, family learning activities and story sessions.

Darlington's Mayor, Councillor Stella Robson, will also be there to present certificates to children who have taken part in the Bookstart Baby Bookcrawl, which encouraged the area's youngest children to visit the library.

Coun Lee Vasey said: "Bookstart is an important initiative that gets children interested in books from a young age.

"It is important that young children learn to enjoy reading and books before they start school.

"I am delighted the scheme is being extended so even more children can receive packs of free books and reading can become part of their everyday life."

The Bookstart Day celebrations will run from 10.30am to 2.30pm.