WITH school out, Dr Who’s arch nemesis, the dalek, is encouraging children to discover the hidden treasures of books by taking part in the annual summer reading challenge.

The 2012 challenge to read six books over the summer holidays, this year takes the theme of Story Lab, where bookworms can share, create, transmit and broadcast tales.

There are two age groups to sign up to with one for children aged four to 12, while older children aged 13 to 16 can join in the teenage summer reading challenge.

At the end of the holiday all who complete the task will receive free family swim sessions at borough leisure centres and a set of Munglers Trump Cards.

Youngsters will also be entered into a free prize draw for the chance of winning tickets to Himley Hall and Park Bonfire, Dudley Zoo , Black Country Living Museum , West Midlands Safari Park and Think Tank.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for housing, libraries and adult learning, said: “2012 is a big year for Great Britain and I hope children and young people across the borough are inspired more than ever to take on their own challenge and read six books this summer. Last year more than 1,800 children completed the challenge and we hope to encourage even more to take part this year.”

Children can join the challenge at any library across the borough.