FREE coding sessions are being offered to children across the borough this summer as part of a libraries activity programme.

The sessions explore the world of Scratch, a free visual programming language, helping to boost coding skills through creating a fun and exciting game.

Starring libraries mascot Ollie the Alien, the interactive games will be made available on the public computers within each library and uploaded to the Scratch website for people around the world to enjoy.

Alison McKenzie-Folan, deputy chief executive and digital advocate for Wigan Council, said: “Embracing digital technology is something we are very passionate about, particularly encouraging young people to start developing their digital skills from an early age.

“To be able to offer the coding sessions in libraries for free is a great way to help children learn to think creatively, whether they are picking it up as a new skill or looking to develop their knowledge of coding.”

The free sessions will be run on Thursdays, at Leigh Library from 1.30pm to 3.30pm on July 27, at Tyldesley Library from 10am to noon on August 3 and at Golborne Library from 1.30pm to 3.30pm on August 10.

Children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult.

To book a free session e-mail digitalservices@wigan.gov.uk or speak to a member of staff at one of the libraries.