Essex County Council is looking for volunteers to help with the Summer Reading Challenge.

Essex Libraries are looking for volunteers to help children keep reading in the summer holidays.

The national Summer Reading Challenge takes place every year, and this year’s challenge is called Creepy House.

Essex Libraries are looking for volunteers aged 14 and above who can give 15 hours between July 20 and September 2. They will help library staff sign up children to the Summer Reading Challenge and talk to children about their books, encouraging them to complete the challenge.

Application forms are available from libraries or from the Essex Libraries website www.essex.gov.uk/libraries in the Volunteering with Libraries section. The closing date for applications is Friday, April 26, for students aged 16 or over and Friday, June14, if under 16.

County Cllr Jeremy Lucas, cabinet member for environment and culture, said: “Last year we had a fantastic 578 volunteers completing 9,993.5 hours in 70 libraries helping staff deliver the challenge.

“This is a great opportunity for young people to help their communities by encouraging children to improve their literacy skills. Volunteers gain valuable work experience and enjoy taking part too!”