Calling all young gadget fans, budding scientists and bookworms

If you're trying to keep children entertained during the school holidays, then this year's challenge could be just the solution.   

The ever-popular annual initiative, run by Hillingdon libraries in conjunction with the Reading Agency, launched earlier this month with kids being encouraged to explore science with this year's theme, 'Gadgeteers'.

To take part, children aged from four to 11 will need to visit their local library four times during the school holidays and borrow any books they like. When they complete the challenge, they'll receive a medal and certificate, and there are bonus incentives to collect along the way!

This year's challenge - which encourages children to keep up their reading during the summer break - is also being run in conjunction with the Science Museum and is aimed at inspiring young readers to think about everyday science and how it impacts their lives. 

It's a great time to focus on the importance of science as more and more young people taking interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects.

Free events, including Lego and science-themed activities, will run until Sunday 18 September across the borough's libraries.

On Thursday 18 August, Professor Indexia's Secret Laboratory comes to the Great Barn in Ruislip, for a day of experiments and science-based workshops for families with children aged four and over. 

Youngsters, aged four to 18, are also being encouraged to put their creative skills to the test as part of a photography competition. The theme this year is 'buildings around the borough' and the winners will be displayed in Uxbridge Library and then the Battle of Britain Bunker and Visitor Centre at the end of October.  

Cllr Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Residents' Services, said: "The Summer Reading Challenge never fails to inspire the borough's youngsters, so it's fantastic to see it back.   

"This year's Gadgeteers theme is already inspiring budding young scientists - and many other children - to pick up a book this summer, so any families interested in getting involved should visit their local library right away."   

For more information, including how to sign-up, prize details and activities, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/summer-reading.