Boogie in the park at Bookstart Bear bash

Early years worker Irene Peachey told stories and rhymes games to celebrate National Bookstart Week

Families packed into Rochdale’s Springfield Park for an afternoon of stories, songs and games to celebrate National Bookstart Week.

The entertainment at the annual Bookstart Bear picnic in the park event was led by early years library worker Irene Peachey.

Every child went home with a free mini copy of ‘A Busy Day for Birds’ by popular author Lucy Cousins.

Families were also able to enjoy miniature train rides, explore a real fire engine and meet some beautiful birds from Wise Owl Bird of Prey Rescue.

The aim of National Bookstart Week is to encourage a love of books amongst children under five and to introduce them to the joys of reading and learning. This year’s theme was ‘Bookstart Bird Boogie’.

Councillor Janet Emsley, cabinet member for libraries, said: “National Bookstart Week is a brilliant concept and the perfect way to introduce children to the joys of stories and rhymes.

"It was great to see so many young families enjoying the event which seems to get bigger and better by the year.

"Well done to everyone in the library service for their hard work and organisation in ensuring the day ran smoothly from start to finish.”

Bookstart Bear Club sessions, presented by Irene Peachey, operates in six libraries across the borough throughout the year.

Membership of libraries is free.