YOUNG people from South Craven are being sought to help run this year's summer reading challenge in North Yorkshire libraries.

Volunteers aged 13 to 24 are needed to assist with the initiative, organised by the Reading Agency.

More than 10,000 children are expected to take part in the challenge, which has a Mischief Makers theme based around the 80th anniversary of the Beano comic.

Volunteers will carry out a range of duties, including helping youngsters choose books, talking to the children about what they have read and assisting with library events.

Each helper will receive a free pack, including a T-shirt and certificate.

County Councillor Greg White, executive member for libraries, said: "The challenge is a great incentive to encourage children to read and use libraries over the summer. Every year it gets better and better and more and more children join in.

"This is a wonderful volunteering opportunity for young people to gain experience of working with children.

"If you would like to play a part in encouraging youngsters to read and have fun over the school holidays, we'd love to hear from you."

For more details, visit South Craven Community Library or e-mail libraries@northyorks.gov.uk.

Applications should be submitted before the start of the challenge on July 14.

The challenge sees children aged four to 11 read at least six library books of their choice, collecting stickers and enjoying other incentives along the way.

For further information, visit summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.