Libraries to loan books, balls and bean bags this summer

Funded by the Commonwealth Games Legacy Funding, the sacks are aimed at children aged six to 11 and contain a skipping rope, bean bags, a frisbee/flying disc, an ankle skip set, soft foam balls, a mini play bat and floor dot markers.

They also include an activity sheet packed with creative ideas for summer holiday fun.

The sacks can be borrowed, just like a library book, for up to four weeks from any of Dudley’s 13 libraries.

There is no limit per household and no deposit required.

The sacks complement the theme of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge - Ready, Set, Read! – with a sports and activity theme.

Councillor Ian Bevan, Dudley's cabinet member for libraries, said: "Libraries are about so much more than just books, they’re a source of community, support and inspiration.

"I hope lots of children sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge but also get outdoors and enjoy the summer with one of our fun, free activity sacks."

Stephanie Rhoden, Better partnership manager for Dudley Libraries, said: "The summer holidays can be an expensive time for families and that is particularly true this year, as the cost-of-living crisis bites.

"We hope these free activity sacks will reduce the financial burden for some local families, while providing entertaining games for children to enjoy, which will also encourage them to be physically active."