SOUTH Craven volunteers are being sought to help with an annual summer reading challenge at the county's libraries.

North Yorkshire County Council is seeking people aged between 13 and 24 to get involved with the initiative.

They will assist with duties such as registering children and helping them choose books, and talk to youngsters about what they've read.

The theme of this year's challenge is Space Chase, marking the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Organised by the Reading Agency, the national scheme aims to encourage children aged up to 11 to read library books. Youngsters collect stickers and other incentives along the way.

County Councillor Greg White, executive member for libraries, said: "The summer reading challenge is a great incentive to encourage children to read and visit libraries.

"Every year it gets better and better and increasing numbers of children take part.

"Libraries offer a wonderful volunteering opportunity for young people to gain experience of working with children by encouraging them to complete the challenge and to promote the library as an inspiring place.

"We'd love to hear from anyone who enjoys working with children and would like to be part of this exciting reading project."

For more details about volunteering, call at South Craven Community Library in Cross Hills or e-mail libraries@northyorks.gov.uk.

Applications should be submitted before the challenge starts on July 13.