The winners of the Summer Reading Challenge enjoyed a small awards ceremony last week.

Merton Mayor Councillor Gilli Lewis-Lavender awarded 14 children vouchers and entertainment tickets, as their prize.

This year's Circus Star themed challenge was a record breaker, with 2,944 children aged between four and 11 taking part, compared to 2,817 last year.

This is the highest number of children to ever participate in the Summer Reading Challenge and means a huge number of Merton's school children are developing their reading skills.

The national event organised by The Reading Agency encourages children to read six books over the summer holidays. Young readers are given incentives along the way including bookmarks and stickers.

The 1,421 children who completed all six books were entered into a prize draw to win tickets to Eddie Catz children's play centre, the Polka Theatre and toy store vouchers.

Merton Council's cabinet member for community and culture, Councillor Martin Whelton said: "The Summer Reading Challenge has been a huge success in Merton year after year.

"Almost 3,000 children joined the challenge and will have improved their literacy as a result.

"Merton libraries have a great deal to offer families and organise many activities for free.

"We hope the success we've enjoyed with the Summer Reading Challenge, encourages more residents to come along to the many events we organise in our libraries throughout the year."