YOUNGSTERS are needed to take on the role of 'Animal Agents' this summer.

A number of free events will take place at west Cheshire libraries as part of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

The annual event encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six books during the long summer holiday.

There is a different theme each year, with this year’s animal detective-themed ‘Animal Agents’ starting officially on July 15.

As part of this year’s challenge, children will meet an amazing team of animal detectives created by Tony Ross, the illustrator of Horrid Henry and many of David Walliams’ best-loved books.

With the help of the Animal Agents, young readers will investigate a strange library mystery and catch a crafty crook.

Other events include animal handling events such as ‘Animals Takeover’ as well as events from ‘Fun Science’ and others from west Cheshire museums and the Chester Zoo Safari Rangers.

Cllr Louise Gittins, Cheshire West and Chester Council cabinet member for communities and wellbeing, said: “This year’s Summer Reading Challenge will soon be here and the list of events planned across all our libraries is bigger and better than ever.

“The Summer Reading Challenge enables our libraries to support parents and carers with their child's reading during the long summer break from school.

“Children return to school for the new school year as more fluent, confident, happy readers after they take part in the Summer Reading Challenge.”

To find out about events at a library near you visit cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/SRC