A SPECIAL event to thank the young volunteers who supported this year's summer reading challenge, in which a record number of children took part, was held by Hillingdon Council.

A total of 39 teenage volunteers helped the library services in promoting the Mythical Maze Summer Reading Challenge, encouraging 8,482 youngsters to join in.

The volunteers were presented with certificates by Cllr Allan Kauffman, and they were joined by authors Alexia Casale, Faye Bird and Jon Robinson at Vyners School Hall in Ickenham.

The challenge, now in its 16th year, is open to children aged 4-11 and promotes reading during the summer holidays, at a time when research has shown that children's reading can dip when they are out of school.

More than 3,500 completed this year's challenge by visiting the library six times to borrow books, higher than any other year.

Volunteer Bethany said: “I've really enjoyed the sense of community it has created. I've been able to discuss books with the participating children and encourage them to complete the challenge."

Cllr Douglas Mills, cabinet member for community, added: "These helpful young volunteers gave up their time to help and encourage children to read more over the summer and did a fantastic job.”