A teenager has dedicated precious summer holiday time to volunteer with younger children taking part in a reading challenge in Royston.

Emma Gomez, right, has been visiting Royston Library for two hours at a time to talk to young children about the books they have been reading as part of Herts County Council’s annual summer reading challenge.

The 16-year-old said: “I really enjoy talking to the children and presenting them with their stickers.

“But the best part of volunteering is encouraging children to read more books.”

More than 15,000 have already taken part in challenge, in which children read six books and are rewarded with stickers, and there are still opportunities to get involved before Saturday, September 5.

Children who have completed the challenge will be invited to a special awards ceremony, where they will receive a certificate and a medal.

They will also be entered into a prize draw with the chance to win a golden ticket for an exclusive author event.

Councillor Teresa Heritage, responsible for libraries at the county council, said: “It’s great to hear about people like Emma getting involved in their local community.

“Emma is a great example of how residents can take the lead and volunteer their time to make a difference to an organisation that they value in their community.”