SHIRLEY Library will be taking on a challenge to read 60 books in just six hours.

Organised by children's cancer charity CLIC Sargent, the Challenge60 is based on young cancer patients facing an average of a 60-mile round trip to gain access to treatment.

According to the charity, it costs patients £180 a month when treatment is at its most intense and as a result, families are in debt and are worrying about how they’ll put petrol in their car or pay train fares.

Cath Brear, Supervisor of Shirley Library said: “On Saturday 28th September, we will be taking on a Challenge60 in Shirley Library by reading 60 books. We will be starting at 10am and hope to finish by 4pm. We do hope that local parents can bring their children down to stay and listen to our mammoth challenge of reading 60 books.”

Liz Blunt, CLIC Sargent Fundraising Engagement Manager for Hampshire, said: “I love visiting Shirley Library as the staff are so friendly and helpful and I really appreciate them organising this fantastic challenge. Having to cope with a cancer diagnosis in a child is absolutely harrowing. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and we are raising awareness of the fact that on average a family have to spend £180 a month on travel costs.

"I do hope lots of local families can join in with this fantastic challenge in the library. Donations are welcome - it would be fantastic if we could raise £180 on this day.”

Last year, over 220 children and young people from Hampshire with cancer were supported by the CLIC Sargent Social Worker team based at Southampton General Hospital.

To get involved, visit https://www.clicsargent.org.uk/join-our-fight/get-campaigning/childhood-cancer-awareness-month/.