YOUNG readers are to be encouraged to pick up a book this summer as part of a circus-themed reading challenge.

Libraries across North Yorkshire will be decked out in circus decorations as children aged between four and 11 are challenged to read six books each through the summer for the Circus Stars challenge.

Children will pick up rewards of stickers, bookmarks and yo-yos for each book that they read.

Certificates and medals will also be presented at local schools and libraries at the end of summer.

The Summer Reading Challenge is now in its 13th year and organisers are looking for volunteers, aged between 14 and 25 to help assist children with the challenge.

The volunteers will work alongside the library staff providing services for the children and there is an opportunity to work towards an accredited award.

County councillor Chris Metcalfe, North Yorkshire’s executive member for schools, said: "The Summer Reading Challenge is a wonderful way of promoting the joy of reading books and introducing the library as a place of fun and excitement. "Research has proved that keeping children interested in books during the summer means they will return to school eager to learn and with reading levels maintained."

An interactive Circus Stars website will be available during the summer where authors and illustrators will be talking about their favourite reads at www.circus-stars.org.uk The deadline to apply for volunteering is June 30. For more information go to www.vinspired.com