YOUNGSTERS will have the chance to see and handle exotic animals as part of this year's summer reading challenge.

Zoo Lab workshops are being staged at libraries across the district.

Animal Agents is the theme of the annual challenge, organised locally by Bradford Council's Library Service.

Every child who reads six books during the summer will receive a certificate and medal, and all those taking part will be given a wallet and stickers.

There will also be items including bookmarks, key rings and wristbands to collect.

The Zoo Lab is aimed at four-to-12-year-olds.

Any youngster registered for the challenge can attend, but places must be booked in advance.

"The challenge is a national initiative delivered by libraries in partnership with the Reading Agency," said a council spokesman.

"It aims to encourage children to continue to read throughout the summer holiday."

Libraries hosting Zoo Lab sessions include Silsden on Tuesday (Aug 1) and Keighley on August 9, both 2pm to 3pm, and Denholme on August 18, 11am to noon.

For more details, visit bradford.gov.uk/libraries.