Posted on: Wednesday 22 October 2025
Torfaen Libraries have announced the winner of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, which saw almost 900 children sign up this summer.
Children aged 4-11 were challenged to read or listen to at least 6 library books of their choice over the holiday period, with this year’s theme, ‘Story Garden’, focusing on nature and the great outdoors.
The lucky winner is 7-year-old Amenadiel Watkins, a pupil at Padre Pio RC Primary School, whose name was picked at random from just over 400 children who completed the challenge.
Amenadiel received a £100 Smyths Toy Store voucher, along with a certificate and medal, during a special school assembly on Friday.
He said: "I love reading and go to the library all the time to get books about football. I play football so I like to read about it. My parents are really proud of me for reading six books in the summer holiday and for winning the prize."
His mum, Dawn, said, “The Summer Reading Challenge has really sparked a love of reading for him – he’s already asking for lots of books on his Christmas list!"
The Summer Reading Challenge is presented by The Reading Agency and looks to not only encourage children to explore books but also nurtures a lifelong love for reading.
To coincide with the challenge, Torfaen Libraries hosted several story and craft sessions, as well as LEGO and coding clubs.
Children also enjoyed author workshops with Bardd Plant Cymru Siôn Tomos Owen, and even met owls from Festival Park Owl Sanctuary!
Libraries are now looking ahead to their October half term activities which include Halloween themed story and craft activities in all the libraries, with booking essential.
Libraries across Torfaen are now taking bookings for their October half term Halloween-themed story and craft sessions. Details about all upcoming events and workshops can be found on the Connect Torfaen website.
Cllr Richard Clark, Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said:
“It’s great to see so many children taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge again this year. Reading is such an important skill, and initiatives like this not only help children discover the joy of books but also lay the foundations for strong academic achievement."
"By encouraging a love of reading early, we’re helping to give every child the best start in life, which is central to our county plan commitment to reducing inequalities in our communities.”
Joining Torfaen Libraries is completely free - just bring proof of your name and address to Blaenavon, Cwmbran, or Pontypool library, or sign up online.
For more information about Torfaen Libraries, contact them on 01633 647676 or visit the Torfaen Libraries Facebook page.