Bookstart Day is celebrated in Neath Port Talbot

Over 100 children and their families joined in the 10th anniversary celebrations for Bookstart Day.

In the run up to the special event, nursery rhyme competitions were run in libraries across Neath Port Talbot and the seven winners were presented with prizes of books and certificates on the day.

Song and rhyme sessions were enjoyed by the toddlers who dressed up as their favourite nursery rhyme characters - Little Bo Peep, Humpty Dumpty and Incy Wincy Spider all joined in the fun.

A magic show rounded off the celebrations which proved to be huge success.

4000 party celebrations were held nationwide.

"The aim of "Bookstart" is to nurture a love of reading from a young age," says Council Leader, Ali Thomas.

"Making reading a daily routine in family life encourages children to become confident and eager to learn.

"They then have a far better start in life when they start school."

Every child in the UK is given a gift from Bookstart of free books at around eight months and then again at 18-24 months. Parents and carers are given guidance to help children to become interested in reading through a range of fun activities.