CHILDREN were surprised to have stories read to them by police officers and firefighters.

Emergency crews called into Runcorn’s Halton Lea Library to support My Hero rhymetimes.

They read Super Duck by Jez Alborough, given as a free gift to all children taking part in the celebration of national bookstart week.

This lively story follows the heroic duck as he rescues his frog friend from an unplanned flight on a wayward kite.

Halton Clr Phil Harris, board member for libiraries, 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.”

Fun-filled rhymetime sessions at libraries across Halton include storytelling, songs, rhythm and movement.