PEOPLE will be a-mazed at what is on offer at their local library with this year's Summer Reading Challenge.

The Summer Reading Challenge is a free national reading scheme for children run by libraries over the summer holidays and is free to take part.

Youngsters can sign up at their local library, then read six library books of their choice, collecting stickers and other rewards along the way.

Fantastical creatures from the world of legend and mythology are the stars of this year's challenge including a yeti and a Minotaur which have all been created by children's illustrator and writer, Sarah McIntyre.

Children aged from four to12 years can sign up for the Mythical Maze challenge from Saturday, July 12 which runs until Saturday, August 30.

Councillor Dorcas Binns, cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: “Last year nearly 10,000 children in Gloucestershire signed up to improve their reading skills over the summer holidays, and we hope even more will join up this year.

"Our libraries will be buzzing with exciting events and family activities, look out for competitions with great prizes.”

As well as enjoying the selection of books over the holidays, children get a fold up poster, a neon wrist band on their second visit and receive a certificate and a medal for completing the challenge.

Last year, there were 108 volunteers who helped out during the challenge. To help out this year, contact your local library or apply online at gloucestershire.gov.uk/libraries/volunteers.