Top readers from 25 of Stockport's schools were invited to a ceremony at the spectacular Town Hall ballroom to celebrate reading. 

The ceremony was the culmination of the Children's Book Awards, which in the months prior had involved schools across the borough given a selection of books to read. There were three titles from three categories - best picture book, best read for juniors, and best read for upper juniors.

The 25 participating schools not only voted for their favourite book in each category, but also nominated a 'reader of the year', who was invited to the ceremony with a special golden ticket. 

The aims of the book awards are to celebrate and spotlight quality children's fiction, promote and build enthusiasm for reading for pleasure (and, by extension, writing), encourage high standards of literacy, and create a community of readers in Stockport. 

As well as the top readers, the nine shortlisted authors also attended, with one from each category being presented with a prize. Other guests included Mayor of Stockport Cllr Graham Greenalgh, and Cllr Frankie Singleton, cabinet member for communities, culture and sport. 

Stockport Council described the event as "a great success [which] brought together children, teachers and parents from across Stockport for a night to remember!".

As well as the reading competitions, the ceremony also saw the presentation of an art prize, whereby readers were tasked with producing an artwork related to one of the shortlisted books. The talented winner received their height in books as a prize. 

The winning books were: 

• Best picture book: The Drama Llama by Rachel Morrisroe
• Best read for juniors - Max Counts to a Million by Jeremy Williams
• Best read for upper juniors - The Colour of Hope by Ross MacKenzie

Cllr Frankie Singleton said: "What a great event this was for our young people across the borough! It was fantastic to see so many children engaging with this year's Book Awards via their schools and local libraries. 

"This initiative really showcases the power of engaging young people with our amazing library service, and sharing the power of reading.

"Hearing some of the stories about children who have learnt English through reading, or have found confidence through reading, or have used their imagination to create amazing artwork based on their reading, was incredible. I want to congratulate all of the young people who received an award on the night!"

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