THIS year's summer reading challenge in Poole has been the most successful ever, it has been announced.

All Borough of Poole (BOP) libraries took part in the initiative, which had a Roald Dahl theme and worked by encouraging youngsters to read six books of their choice over the summer.

Council officials say 3,300 children took part in the challenge.

BOP cabinet member for libraries, Cllr Mohan Iyengar, said: "It is fantastic to see so many young people reading, and completing this year's summer reading challenge.

"This is a fun challenge with an underlying purpose to get our children happily engaged in books for the longer term."

Schools across the borough also took part in the challenge, before competing for the Poole Libraries Summer Reading Challenge Schools Awards for the highest number of participants.

This year Broadstone First School won the title, which was marked by a special plaque.

Cllr Iyengar said: "Congratulations to Broadstone First, whose pupils have done tremendously well, and I hope to see many students competing again next year – possibly beating their own record."

The challenge featured some of Roald Dahl's best-loved characters, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the author's birth.

It also included artwork from his principal illustrator, Sir Quentin Blake.

A BOP spokesman explained: "By reading six library books of their choice over the summer they could collect exclusive rewards along the way including special limited edition Quentin Blake collector cards, each celebrating a popular Dahl theme - mischief, invention, adventure, wordplay, child champions, and friendship.

"There were also stickers, BFG bookmarks, and for those fully completing the challenge by reading six books: medals, certificates, and an exclusive Poole libraries chocolate bar."

Visit poole.gov.uk/libraries for more information on the summer reading challenge.