A summer reading challenge for children across Herts is now under way – and organisers are hoping it will be a record breaker.

Thousands of youngsters across Hertfordshire are expected to take part at their local library, and the scheme has already set one new mark – a record number of volunteers have stepped up to support them.

More than 440, most of them aged from 14 to 24, will be encouraging young readers as they work their way through as many books as possible during the school holidays.

This year the annual challenge has a Record Breakers theme. Collecting stickers as they go, young readers will aim to discover weird, wonderful and wacky records from around the world.

Record Breakers packs are available in all Herts libraries, including mobile libraries, throughout the summer while stocks last.

Children who have completed the challenge will be invited to a special awards ceremony, where they will receive a certificate and a medal.

They will also be entered into a prize draw with the chance to win a ‘Golden Ticket’ for an exclusive author event.