A callout for volunteers to coordinate this year’s summer reading challenge, which encourages children aged four to 11 to read six library books over the summer holidays, has been made.

Organised by the Reading Agency, this year’s challenge is themed on ‘Marvellous Makers’, which aims to spark creativity for children to create their own stories, a spokesperson from Westmorland and Furness Libraries – who made the callout – said.

Volunteers aged between 14 and 24 are being sought to ‘make a meaningful impact in their community’ through this.

Westmorland and Furness Council said all volunteers are given training before the challenge starts, and if they are working towards a Duke of Edinburgh Award or similar, their logged hours can be counted towards it.

The council’s cabinet member for sustainable communities and localities, Virginia Taylor, said: “Volunteering for the reading challenge is a great opportunity for young people who want to get involved in their community.

“They’ll develop important life skills, gain valuable work experience, be part of a team and build confidence – not to mention learning new things, making friends and having a good time.”

To learn more, and apply, visit the council’s website’s page on the matter by clicking here.