CHILDREN in the borough of Redcar and east Cleveland are being encouraged to take part in a reading challenge.

Last year the Reading Planet scheme attracted hundreds of youngsters, and this year's challenge, the Reading Maze, is hoping to repeat that success.

Children will receive medals and certificates if they have reached the end of six books by the time the summer holidays are over.

All the borough's 13 libraries are taking part in the scheme, which provides each child with a free wallet, stickers and other gifts as they progress through the books.

Pat Clarke, children's librarian at Redcar, said: "We want children from all ages up to 12. It doesn't even matter if they can't read yet - mum and dad can read to them.

"We are including videos and tapes, which are also available to hire from our libraries, in the six-step maze.

"It really was a great success last year and we are hoping for a repeat.