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Carnival time as reading scheme draws to a close 21 September 2011 STREETS surrounding the Department of Education and Children’s Family Library were filled with the sound of Brazilian samba music on Saturday as the Summer Reading Scheme reached its final destination. Samba Mann were at the library in Westmoreland Road, Douglas, for a carnival marking the end of the scheme, Around the World in 72½ Days.  The colourful event was the culmination of 72½ days of reading, fun and games for fives and over, who took part in the challenge to read five books and enjoyed games and other challenges on the journey. Mary Cousins, Librarian-in-Charge, described Saturday as an incredible end to an incredible summer of activity enjoyed by young members. ‘We took the children on a journey to Italy, Africa, India, Japan and Mexico and they learned about each country and had fun along the way,’ Mary said. ‘We’ve had such a great response and the closing event, at our final destination in Brazil, was packed with just some of the children and parents who took part. ‘We were overwhelmed by the response we’ve had and it’s really rewarding to see children so excited about reading and visiting the library. ‘Samba Mann were fantastic. They launched our closing party with such brilliant rhythm and energy. Everyone just loved them. And they kindly donated their time, as a special favour. We are grateful for their generosity and spirit,’ Mary said. Under-fives enjoyed their own, safari-themed, challenge and, in total, 300 children participated in the two schemes. Children who completed the two schemes received certificates and there was special recognition for those who scored highly in the reading scheme game. The Lexicon Bookshop sponsored prizes for twins Corrin and Shellan Leeming, eight, (pictured above) and Jack Tyrer, 11. Meanwhile, Zachary Elliott, 10, was presented with the top prize by sponsor David Thompson, from Thompson Travel in Port Erin. ‘All the children contributed wonderfully this year but some children produced some amazing things and Zachary produced a journal, as if he was actually travelling around the world, and it was exceptional,’ Mary said. There were also prizes for the children with the best masks and costumes. Mary thanked the judges, retired DEC Youth Adviser Mike Clague and his wife Liz and artist Krista Magee ‘We are grateful to our sponsors, supporters and parents but most of all the children who made this event such a success. We are already planning for next year and hope even more children and parents get involved in 2012.’ More stories >>>
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