EVERY summer Somerset County Council’s libraries are buzzing with children taking part in The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge - and this year’s Big Friendly Read has been no exception.

The Big Friendly Read has been inspired by celebrations surrounding the 100 year anniversary of Roald Dahl and also coincides with the launch of the new film of Roald Dahl’s classic book The BFG.

Children all over Somerset have been flocking to their local libraries to read their favourite books and gain specially commissioned Dahl themed cards, medals and prizes for reading up to six books over the school summer holidays.

The Summer Reading Challenge takes place every year during the holidays and requires children to sign up at their local library, and then read six library books of their choice to complete the challenge.

There are exclusive rewards to collect along the way, and it’s free to take part.

The Summer Reading Challenge website helps children to keep track of their reading, find new books to read, and take part in competitions and play games.

Cllr David Hall, cabinet member with a responsibility for libraries, said: “This is a great opportunity for children and young people to further their reading skills in a fun and engaging way, and I would encourage all parents to get their children involved if they can.”

Abigail, aged eight, who has been taking part in the Big Friendly Read said: “I think it’s really fun and has helped me read a lot more books than normal.”

One library volunteer said: “I have been volunteering for the Big Friendly Read at my local library and it was very busy.

"All the children were excited to be taking part and loved reading the books they had picked.”

The Big Friendly Read is free for children to join and is continuing at all Somerset libraries until September 10, so it’s not too late to make a start.