CHAMPION bookworms have discovered that there are real rewards in reading.

Diane Rees (10) and Kate Howarth (5) won prizes after taking the two top places in competitions run by library staff during National Children's Book Week.

Diane, of Hampshire Close, Bury, won a "Book Character Quiz" in the category for those aged between eight and 12. Children had to name ten book characters from clues given in a series of questions and Diane won a £15 Waterstone's voucher.

Meanwhile Kate, of Holbeach Close, Bury, entered the "Famous Characters Competition" in the under-sevens category. She had to colour and name six famous book characters and won a £10 Early Learning Centre voucher.

They were presented with their vouchers at Bury Library.

Councillor Siobhan Costello, arts and culture spokesman, said: "The questions were difficult, particularly in the older age categories of the competition, and required quite a bit of knowledge or research into the books concerned.

"Our congratulations go out not just to the winners, Diane and Kate, but to all the other children who took the time to get involved. Even if they have not won a prize on this occasion, we hope that they enjoyed themselves."