A DOG named Miss Mabel, who helps children with their reading in class, will be helping young super sleuths in a library reading challenge over summer.

The Globe Community Library in Stokesley will be taking part in the national Animal Agents Summer Reading Challenge for children aged four to 11. On Tuesday, August 1, the friendly labradoodle Miss Mable, will be at the library at 2.30pm to meet the children and help them with the challenge.

The dog is a regular visitor to Linthorpe Community Primary School in Middlesbrough, where children who don’t feel confident reading to an adult can read to her.

The reading challenge means children will be able to borrow books about animals throughout summer and every time they read two books during the holiday challenge, they will receive a sticker and a small gift.

Library Manager Jane Hall: “ We`ll be having a quiz and craft activities after we have met Miss Mabel, who will be on standby if anyone needs help. Every time a child reads two books during the challenge in the holidays, they will receive a sticker and small gift. All those who complete the challenge of reading six books will also get a medal and certificate.

“In addition, their names will go into a drawer to win a private tour of a farm, and tea and cake – thanks to Fletchers Farm at Great Ayton. It is very exciting!”

Gill Caan, who owns Miss Mabel says: “Miss Mabel loves being with people and does a lot of voluntary work. The children she visits at Linthorpe School love her, and those who don’t feel confident to read out loud to adults love to read to her.

“It’s lovely seeing what happens to a child when this transformation takes place, and to watch as the children’s confidence and reading skills come on by leaps and bounds. That is so rewarding.”