Children across Dorset are being invited to take part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge, this year themed on the power of sports and games.

Children ages 4 to 11 can take part in the challenge, with books available from Dorset libraries and online via the challenge website.

The challenge characters – brought to life from children's imagination by a children's author and illustrator, Loretta Schauer – will navigate their way through a fictional summer obstacle course tracking their reading as they go, getting rewarded by free incentives including stickers.

With activity challenge cards from the Youth Sport Trust and an exciting, themed book collection, the Summer Reading Challenge aims to keep children's imaginations growing over the school holidays.

By joining the challenge at Dorset libraries, young children will have the opportunity to explore new and exciting reading material, develop skills and discover new interests.

The challenge has been active since 1999, helping improve children's reading skills and boosting confidence over the summer holidays, ensuring they are ready for the new school year to start.

With the help of local libraries, this challenge is accessible to all and provides a fun, free activity for children.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Culture and Communities, said: "The Summer Reading Challenge is an excellent way to get kids reading – and a brilliant free summer holiday activity!

"Books are an adventure portal into other worlds and this year's theme will help children keep their minds and bodies active over the summer break."

An online schools launch event with children's author Steve Cole will b held on Friday, June 30 from 9.15am to 10am. Book a place for your class here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/schools-online-author-event-with-childrens-author-steve-cole-tickets-642273004847