A numeracy project is being launched across all Bradford libraries this week.

The programme, Count Me In 1,2,3 - which is being supported by Yorkshire Bank - will be introduced to all of Bradford Council's 31 libraries in the summer.

The launch event is taking place at Shipley Library on Thursday, when goody bags will be handed out to those children attending.

These bags will be available at all other libraries after the launch.

The programme has a series of activities for children aged between one and four to help them develop their skills with numbers. The activities include a range of bright and colourful bags containing educational aids such as books and games that can be borrowed for free from the district's libraries by parents and carers of young children.

Councillor Anne Hawkesworth said: "This joint project between Bradford libraries and Yorkshire Bank will ensure children will benefit from acquiring essential life skills from an early age.

"Research shows children who become familiar with books at an early stage gain a head start, not only with their literacy, but also with their numeracy skills."

The Count Me In 1,2,3 programme was developed in Scotland by Yorkshire Bank's sister bank, Clydesdale, and Dundee City Libraries.

Jacqui Atkinson, community affairs manager at Yorkshire Bank, said: "It is never too young for children to begin developing the kind of basic skills with numbers that will be vital as they grow older.

"This initiative is a great way to stimulate young children to learn essential maths and will be a new resource for encouraging a child's learning development."