NEARLY 3,500 children flocked to Blackpool's 12 libraries on Friday (June 16) as part of a national challenge to set a world record for the largest number of youngsters to visit libraries in a day.

The challenge also marked the beginning of the 'reading relay' in Blackpool, which is a scheme to encourage toddlers and teenagers to get more involved with reading ahead of this year's Olympic games and rewards them for borrowing and reading books.

They are asked to record their thoughts about books on cards designed by top children's illustrators . If they complete a series of six cards they are eligible for a certificate and medal. There are special prizes up for grabs in Blackpool, like tickets for the SeaLife Centre, sports centre and swimming baths and the program runs until the start of the Olympics.

Coun Eddie Collett, Blackpool's executive member for education and libraries, said the initiative was a great way of encouraging children to read and would help promote the vast facilities available at libraries.

He said: "There are books to suit all tastes to provide a perfect opportunity for mums and dads to share and enjoy the experience of reading together".