Around 1,500 pupils from Derbyshire have been competing on their knowledge of books in a countywide literature contest.

The event for 11 to 14-year-olds aimed to increase their interest in reading and their use of school libraries.

Heats whittled numbers down to teams of four from 22 schools who competed in the final at County Hall, Matlock.

There they attempted to answer 100 questions on books that ranged from classical literature to modern children’s fiction.

St Thomas More Catholic School, Buxton, emerged as the winner of the fourth Derbyshire Literature Challenge, with Glossopdale Community College runners-up and Brookfield Community School, Chesterfield, finishing third.

Councillor Mike Longden, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for education, said: “The standard was very high and the competitive atmosphere really gave the event an edge which motivated pupils to do their best.

“We’re keen to give our students a love of books and reading because it equips them with skills for life and brings great pleasure.” WS.