FIREFIGHTERS and police officers are being heralded as role models for children as Halton Council celebrates national bookstart week.

Emergency crews will be reading stories to youngsters as part of My Hero rhymetimes in libraries.

Firefighters will be leading a session at Runcorn's Halton Lea Library at 11am on Thursday, June 12.

A special version of Harper Collins’ Super Duck by Jez Alborough, will be a free gift for children who take part.

The fun-filled rhymetimes also include rhymes, storytelling and other activities to encourage children and their parents and carers to enjoy songs, rhymes, rhythm and movement together.

Halton Cllr Phil Harris, board member for libraries, said: ‘All the research shows that reading together strengthens family bonds and helps children do better at school, whatever the family’s background.

“You don’t have to be a great reader yourself to share a story with your children, Often you just need to let the pictures carry you both along." 

For dates and times of the My Hero rhymetimes visit halton.gov.uk/libraries.