A SMALL step for children could lead to a giant leap towards them having a great time with reading in York next week.

Youngsters visiting their local Explore centre or library will be able to take part in the Space Hop reading challenge, organised by City of York Council, when they can delve into books relating to cosmic travel.

The free reading initiative will be officially launched on Tuesday, at 2pm, at York Explore in Museum Street, where children aged between four and 12 can sign up to read six books over the summer holidays as well as pick up incentives, prizes and ideas.

There will also be the opportunity for them to meet performer and poet Paul Cookson, who will be hosting a special performance for the challenge.

More information on Space Hop can be found at spacehop.org.uk and any variety of books, including picture books, stories and audiobooks, can count towards completing the challenge.

Details are also available at yorkg.gov.uk/libraries and from Explore centres and libraries.