South Tyneside Libraries is holding a special event as part of their National Year of Reading celebrations.

October's theme is 'do something different' and staff at the Central Library in South Shields, decided an alien invasion would do the trick.
The Prince Georg Square library, in South Shields will be swarming with characters from Dr Who, including classic era Daleks and Cyberman.

Also joining them will be the Clockwork Droid, Ood, Robot Santa, the Sec human/Dalek hybrid, Dr Constantine and Jamie (gas mask people) from 'The Empty Child' episode and Brannigan, as well as characters from Star Wars.

Reader development librarian Pauline Martin, who has been organising National Year of Reading events, said: "As a child I spent many a Saturday night hiding behind the sofa so the Daleks would not exterminate me.

"I am thrilled our friends from Doctor Who and Star Wars are coming to visit the library, and I may even convince them to try a book from our new science fiction collection. Who knows we may even find out what they like to read!

"You may even see Darth Vader or a Stormtrooper lurking around the library shelves." The sci-fi characters will be descending on South Shields Library courtesy of Hyde Fundraisers.

The characters will be there for photo opportunities at this special event supporting charities BBC Children In Need and The Rainbow Trust.
Workshops will run throughout the day in mask making, computer animation and model making.

Mrs Martin added: "All in all it's a reading experience which is totally 'Out of this World'."

Places are free, but booking is essential.

Call the library on 4247879.