NATURE-themed events are being held at two Thurrock libraries this summer to celebrate the Summer Reading Challenge.

This year's theme Wild World Heroes is a collaboration between the Reading Agency and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) showcasing nature and action for the environment.

To add to the fun, Grays and Aveley libraries will host some nature-themed events.

Staff from RSPB Rainham Marshes will put on special 'nature's heroes' craft sessions suitable for children aged five to 12 years at:

Aveley Library: Thursday, 5 August, 10am to 12pm

Grays Library: Thursday, 12 August, 10am to 12pm

Grays Library in the Thameside complex will hold a session with South Essex Wildlife Hospital about the work it does for wildlife in Thurrock on Wednesday 25 August from 11am to 12pm (suggested £2 donation).

Children can also take part in a craft and story session at the Thameside Children's Centre on Tuesday 31 August from 10am to 12pm. This event is available as separate sessions for children to take part in due to limits on numbers.

Cllr Deb Huelin, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "It's fantastic that our libraries can put on events for this year's Summer Reading Challenge to inspire our children and young people to learn more about wildlife and their environment. Reading not only benefits our children's education, it opens up a world full of adventure, creativity and joy.

Pre-booking is essential for Grays events including the Thameside Children's Centre. Telephone 01375 413 976 to book or for details.

You can find out more about activites at local libraries, including the summer reading challenge hosted by the Thurroick libraries service, via this link. thurrock.gov.uk/summer-reading-challenge

Thurrock and Essex libraries have recently joined The Libraries Consortium, enabling residents to access an additional six million items of stock.