A FLOCK of local families gathered at Fishguard Library last Tuesday to enjoy a special bird-themed storytime session, celebrating BookTrust's National Bookstart Week 2018.

Children from two local nurseries and families from the Fishguard Library Storytime Group enjoyed crafts, activities and stories. The session ended with a visit from West Wales Falconry and children were treated to a special flying display.

The event was organised by Pembrokeshire County Council's Library Services and supported by BookTrust Cymru.

Laura Evans, Bookstart Coordinator for Pembrokeshire said:

"It's wonderful to be able to work with the BookTrust to support National Bookstart Week. The idea that the free Bookstart packs are given out by health visitors shows the importance that books have in creating a bond with your child. It's never too early to start to read to your baby.

"The regular Baby Rhymetime sessions held in Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock and Tenby libraries are fun, friendly and informal. They give you a chance to share stories and rhymes with your child and to meet other families."

Mike, a local grandparent who attended the Fishguard event said: "We come every week to the Storytime at Fishguard Library with our granddaughter. Tracey is amazing with the stories and rhymes she shares. We feel books and stories are very important to children, and we had a fantastic time today."

Every child in Wales can receive a special Bookstart pack of books when they are six months and 27 months old, usually from their health visitor. The Bookstart packs include English and Welsh language books, fun rhyme resources and ideas to help families keep on reading and enjoying books.

This year's theme, Bookstart Bird Boogie, is based on the fun picture book A Busy Day for Birds by Lucy Cousins, which was given out to every child that attended the event. In Wales there is a very special bilingual version of the book, adapted by Poet and former Bardd Plant Cymru, Aneirin Karadog.