THOUSANDS of children have caught the reading bug and signed up to the annual summer reading challenge in borough libraries.

So far 2,226 bookworms aged between four and 11, have signed themselves up to read six library books during the school holidays.

This year’s event is themed around a mythical maze, which will challenge youngsters to find their way round a labyrinth of creatures from the world of legend and mythology.

Children who complete the challenge by Spetmeber 14 will receive a certificate and glow-in-the-dark wristband and be entered into a free prize draw for a chance to win prizes including family tickets to top local attractions.

Councillor Hilary Bills, cabinet member responsible for libraries, said: “It’s great to see this year’s challenge proving as popular as ever with thousands of children already taking part.

"There’s still over a month to go before the challenge comes to an end, so plenty of time for children to visit their local library and sign up.”