FIFTY foster children are racing against the clock to save a professor trapped inside a time capsule.

In a unique initiative by Blackburn with Darwen Council, the children have been given a reading list with clues taking them around the town.

It is hoped the trail, devised by education teams and the library service, will not only help them unlock the secrets to a fictitious character, but also help children and their carers feel part of a new reading club.

"It's all part of many things we do to sustain and raise the achievement of looked-after children and this is focused on encouraging them to enjoy books," said Lynda Corban, education manager for looked-after children.

"We created the character Professor Nabroc and said he had been locked in the time capsule by his teacher in 1900 because he couldn't answer all the questions he was set.

"The children are now involved in a time treasure hunt, looking for clues in 10 popular children's books and venues such as libraries and sports centres.

"They have to read the books very carefully to find answers to the questions we've set and send in their answers. Each time they send in their answers, the professor moves on 10 years in time, so we can introduce new stories, new periods of history and new tasks for the children.

"Eventually they will piece together a message asking them to be at a certain place in Blackburn at a certain time in October. They will be able to release the Professor, meet him face to face and claim a prize for taking part."

The scheme has been designed for five to 13-year-olds and all the books have been tailored to children's actual reading age, rather than their physical age.

Children who come into the care of the local authority between now and October are also being offered the chance to take part.

"It's too early to say what impact it may have on children's grades at school, but we know children and their carers are enjoying the books and venues and that can only have a positive effect in the long run," added Mrs Corban.