BOOKWORMS are being encouraged to bury their head in a good book with the launch of this year's summer reading challenge.

The Summer Reading Challenge, run by the Reading Agency, is a national campaign aimed at encouraging children aged four to 11 to read and use libraries throughout the summer holidays.

Every year thousands of children and families get on board to join the UK's biggest reading scheme to encourage children to read six books.

Through this year's theme, 'Mythical Maze', children will be introduced to fantastical creatures from the world of legend and mythology.

Young readers can join in at any Worcestershire Library and every time a child finishes a book they get Mythical Maze stickers and rewards, and there is a certificate and medal for everyone who finishes.

Lucy Hodgson, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Localism and Communities, said: "This year's Summer Reading Challenge is all about legends and myths, which is what children revel in when picking and reading stories.

"This event always attracts children and parents from across the county to get involved with reading and let their imaginations flow.

"I would encourage anyone who is thinking of registering for the challenge to do so as it's a great opportunity to get your children interested in books during the long summer months."

All children who have read two books were invited to Thursday's launch at Croome, near Pershore, where they got the chance to meet bestselling author Jeremy Strong.

And on Thursday, August 14 children who have read four books will be invited back to Croome to take part in further events and to also meet another bestselling author, Stephen Cole.

Anyone who wants to attend next month's event, should contact the library responsible for signing them up to the challenge.