THIS week people across the world will celebrate their love of reading and books.

On September 6, it is Read A Book Day when people are encouraged to put their feet up and curl up with a book.

Reading is a fantastic way to stimulate the mind and it can also slow down the mental effects of age and dementia.

National Read a Book Day is observed annually on September 6. On August 9, we all celebrated National Book Lovers Day. While these bookish days may seem similar, National Read a Book Day invites us ALL to grab a book we might enjoy and spend the day reading.

People are encouraged to not keep it to themselves and share the experience, by reading to children and grandparents.

Reading improves memory and concentration as well as reduces stress. Older adults who spend time reading show a slower cognitive decline and tend to participate in more mentally stimulating activities over their lifetime. Books are an inexpensive entertainment, educational tool and time machine too.

Whilst some people enjoy escaping into a fantasy world of fiction others enjoy learning something new through educational books or biographies.

On Read a Book Day people are encouraged to visit book stores or libraries where they can pick out the book that they want to read.

It doesn't have to be a new book either, it can be an old favourite that you've come to love over the years.

History books offer a glimpse into the past or you could even dive straight into the thrilling world of poetry.

These photos show how people in Cumbria have shared their love of reading over the years.