NEARLY 1,000 children and young people took part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge across libraries in the Vale of Glamorgan in 2025.

Over half of those who took part also successfully finished six or more books over the course of the challenge.

This year's theme - The Story Garden - invited young readers to discover the wonders of nature through storytelling, fostering creativity and a deeper connection with the world around them. 

Children of all ages were encouraged to sign up at any library branch in the Vale of Glamorgan to take part, as the challenge aimed to inspire them to develop their literacy and language skills outside of school, while nurturing their imagination and love of books.

The featured titles for 2025 included The Ocean Gardener by Clara Anganuzzi - a beautifully illustrated story that dives deep into the mysteries of the underwater world, BOING! A Bouncy Book of Bugs by James Carter - a lively and interactive read about the tiny creatures buzzing all around us, and The Edge of the Silver Sea by Alex Mullarky - an enchanting adventure full of mystery and magic where the land meets the sea.

For every two books read and returned, participants received stickers and a special folder to track their reading journey, and those who read six or more books were awarded a medal and a certificate of achievement.

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, said: "I'd like to congratulate everyone who took part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge, and I'm delighted to see so many children and young people delve into the world of stories and learning. 

"Encouraging a love of reading from an early age is so important for their development, and it was wonderful to see our libraries playing such a vital role in this work right across the Vale. I look forward to seeing even more young readers join us next year!"