Spooky tales, ghostly goings-on and creepy creatures will be materialising at East Sussex libraries this summer.

The spectral shenanigans are part of a bid to encourage children to enjoy reading for pleasure and keep honing their literacy skills during the long, languid days of summer.

East Sussex County Council is promoting the national Summer Reading Challenge, which sets youngsters aged four to 11 the task of reading six books during the six-week holidays, rewarding them with stickers, wristbands and certificates.

To link in with the challenge, which this year has a ‘Creepy House’ theme, libraries will host a series of spooky sessions aimed at fuelling the imagination of youngsters.

Events include a range of sessions at which children can hear ghost tales and take part in creepy craft activities.

Meanwhile, in some libraries youngsters can get up close and personal with a variety of curious critters, including creepy crawlies and slithering serpents.

Cllr Chris Dowling, county council lead member for community services, said: “Ghosts and strange creatures never fail to capture the imagination of youngsters, so this seemed like the perfect way to encourage them to visit their local library.

“The six week holidays mean children have a lot of time on their hands, and reading not only keeps their literacy skills sharp during the summer break but also fuels their imagination in a way that television or computer games just can’t do.”

All sessions are free and places can be reserved by calling 0345 6080196. Children under eight must be accompanied by a parent or carer.

A full list of events is available on the children’s library page of the council website.