Families across Stoke-on-Trent are being invited to enjoy a summer of stories, creativity and outdoor fun as Tales in the Park returns for its fifth year.

Organised by the National Literacy Trust, the free family-friendly festivals will visit six parks across the city during the school holidays, bringing storytelling, crafts, circus skills, pop-up sports and free books for children to enjoy.

Running from 11am to 3pm, the events will take place at:

• Tunstall Park – Tuesday 28 July
• Hanley Park – Friday 31 July
• Yeaman Street Recreation Ground – Tuesday 4 August
• Fenton Park – Friday 7 August
• Longton Park – Tuesday 11 August
• Burslem Park – Friday 14 August

Designed for families with children aged 0 to 13, Tales in the Park aims to inspire a love of reading through fun, accessible activities in local green spaces. Alongside live storytelling sessions, visitors can enjoy hands-on activities, sports, circus workshops and a bouncy castle, while every child can take home a free book courtesy of HarperCollins, while stocks last.

The festivals are delivered in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent Libraries and YMCA North Staffordshire. Library staff will also be on hand with the Little Library Van, giving families the chance to sign up for library membership and this year's Summer Reading Challenge.

All events are free to attend, with no booking required.