A DRAWING workshop has been held by a successful author to encourage children to read during the summer holidays.

Liz Million is holding three sessions at Darlington Libraries as part of the town’s summer events programme.

The purpose of the event is to persuade more children to spend their holiday time reading, and those who complete the challenge will receive a voucher for a free swim at the Dolphin Centre.

They will also go in to a draw to win a class disco for their school.

Ms Million has written and illustrated books including Be Quiet Belinda, Noisy Neighbours, Digger and Little Fred Riding Hood.

Speaking about the reading challenge, she said: "Reading for pleasure is more important to children’s successes than education or social class.

"The Summer Reading Challenge helps to improve reading skills and confidence during the long holidays and rewards children along the way," she added.

The Challenge is open to all children aged between four and 11 years of age and is free.

To complete the challenge, children need to visit Crown Street or Cockerton Library three times and borrow books to read over the summer holidays.

The event runs until September 2.

More details about events at Darlington Libraries can be found at www.darlington.gov.uk/web/arena/special-events