WITH so much school time lost it is more important than ever for children in Tenbury and the Teme Valley to do some reading this summer.

So, the Summer Reading Challenge is back and it is time to join the Silly Squad.

Worcestershire Libraries are calling all children aged 4-11 years to join the ‘Silly Squad’ and take part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

The Silly Squad website (sillysquad.org.uk) will be available to access until September, featuring games, quizzes and digital and downloadable activities to incentivise and encourage children and their families to take part in the reading challenge at home.

The Summer Reading Challenge is a popular annual children’s event delivered by public libraries across the UK.

Produced by the Reading Agency, it is designed to encourage children aged 4-11 years to continue reading during the summer holiday break from school.

This year’s Silly Squad Summer Reading Challenge 2020 will be available online following widespread library closures to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Junior library members can use books they already have at home or access a wide range of ebooks from the Worcestershire County Council digital library using the Borrowbox app.

The Digital library even has a Silly Squad collection to get youngsters started with the challenge.

“Reading is an important part of learning and education,” said Councillor Lucy Hodgson, cabinet member with responsibility for communities, at Worcestershire County Council.

“We are delighted to still support the Summer Reading Challenge even during a time when our libraries are not operating in the usual way.

“Worcestershire Libraries will be supporting and motivating children taking part in the challenge with a series of online events and challenges and we hope to get as many children involved as possible!”

A launch party was held on Friday, June 5 via the Summer Reading Challenge Facebook page.

It featured a host of authors, illustrators and celebrities sharing their favourite silly stories.

For more Summer Reading Challenge online events visit https://www.facebook.com/WorcestershireLibraries/