More than 1,600 youngsters in Lichfield and Burntwood have signed up for a summer reading challenge.
The number has exceeded expectations, but Staffordshire County Council’s Library Service is urging more children to land their gold medal for reading.
The Story Lab theme has been linked to London 2012 and contains three stages which relate to the medals of the Olympics.
Youngsters who start the challenge are encouraged to read six books and be awarded with their very own gold medal.
County Councillor Pat Corfield said: “Congratulations to the youngsters of Lichfield for making this year’s challenge such a great success – it’s wonderful to see so many of you taking part.
“The Summer Reading Challenge is also proving popular with moms and dads too. It not only banishes the boredom without breaking the bank, but also creates a real buzz around reading for fun.”
The Summer Reading Challenge is aimed at children aged four to eleven, is in its 13nth year and is expected to attract around 760,000 young people nationally. Children can sign up to the challenge at their local library and will receive a free starter pack.
For more information visit www.staffordshire.gov.uk/libraries.