YOUNG dancers from Bridport brought myths and legends to life in an event aiming to inspire children to read.

Inspired by Mythical Maze, Summer Reading Challenge, Bridport Youth Dancers gave an insight into the world of goblins and showed through their dance what they would act and look like in real life.

Budding young performers also had the opportunity to take part in exciting workshops where they learnt secret dance moves that they can share with library staff.

The show was created by Commotion Dance Company’s choreographer Hannily Bendell and dance artist Justine Fry.  The young performers included Katie Pike, Tilly Summers, Ellie Wellman and Abby Prowse.

Sharon Kirkpatrick, Senior Manager at Dorset Library Services, said: “The dancers gave us a feast for the senses and are sure to have inspired children to join the Summer Reading Challenge. To date over 6000 children in Dorset have signed up, a great start!”

The performance was part of The Giant’s Story, www.stepintoabook.org.uk designed to inspire and motivate children to engage with reading in a fun and exciting way. It complements the Summer Reading Challenge in the South West, and Dorset Library Service is one of 15 library authorities in the South West taking part.

Justine Fry from Bridport Youth Dance added: “The girls did a great job creating and performing their characters. It was a pleasure working with them. The Giant’s Story is a great project to be a part of.”

 Cllr Colin Jamieson, Cabinet member for community services, said: “The annual Summer Reading Challenge, run by Dorset County Council’s library service, provides a great opportunity for children to use their imagination and immerse themselves in challenging books, and this year is no exception with The Giants Story forming a great cornerstone to a scheme that runs throughout the school holidays.

“It is great fun and it is free. It’s not too late to join and local libraries have organised a packed programme of exciting events and activities across the county.

 “All they have to do is read six books of their choice, collecting stickers for their posters as they go along.  If they successfully complete the challenge, they will be awarded a medal and a certificate.

 “Last year more than 7,700 children in Dorset took part, and we hope to break this record with even more kids joining in the Mythical Maze.”