Posted on: Friday 13 October 2023
Torfaen Libraries have announced the winners of their 'Ready, Set, Read!' Summer Reading Challenge, that saw more than 1000 children take part this summer.
Libraries invited children aged 4-11 to dive into the world of books, by reading at least six or more library books of their choice over the six-week holidays.
This year’s winner, 10-year-old Lily Williams, was given a £100 gift voucher for Smyths Toy Store after her name was chosen at random from a list of over 400 children who completed the challenge.
Lily, a pupil at Blaenavon Heritage VC Primary School, was presented with the voucher, together with a certificate and medal at a special school assembly.
Two-year-old Finlay Stephens won the first ever mini challenge, receiving a goody bag of books and musical instruments during a visit to Cwmbran Library.
The Summer Reading Challenge, presented by The Reading Agency, in collaboration with libraries and the Youth Sport Trust, not only encourages children to explore books but also nurtures a lifelong love for reading.
To coincide with the challenge, which kicked off in July, Torfaen Libraries hosted several story and song sessions, crafts, activities, and Lego clubs, creating a vibrant reading atmosphere.
Councillor Peter Jones, Torfaen Council’s Executive Member for Corporate Governance and Performance, said: "Staff at all our libraries were delighted by the fantastic uptake this year, with more children taking part than ever before.
"Congratulations to Lily and Finlay for winning this year’s challenge, their love for reading is encouraging. They set a wonderful example for other young readers in our community."
For more information about Torfaen Libraries and upcoming events, please contact them on 01633 647676 or visit the Torfaen Libraries Facebook page.