A NEW 'party' trail has launched at Delamere Forest celebrating 25 years of the popular children's character, The Gruffalo.

From this month on, families can enjoy making their way around this celebratory trail, which will run all year long, to immerse themselves in the magical world of Julia Donaldson's award-winning picture book, illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

The Gruffalo has been a fixture at Delamere, and other forests across the UK, since 2014 when a collaboration began between Forestry England and Magic Light Pictures.

A Foresty England spokesman said: "The Gruffalo's 25th birthday trail is going to be a big party in the forest.

"As part of the adventure, families will be encouraged to work together to search for missing party items whilst enjoying fun and games along the trail. Participants will also learn about the intricate ways plants and animals look after each other.

"The trails will boast five large activity panels, two of which will include interactive elements. In addition, visitors can expect 15 smaller spotter panels, where they can search for missing party items.

Chester and District Standard: Children enjoying the new Gruffalo trailChildren enjoying the new Gruffalo trail (Image: Forestry England/Crown copyright)

"Five rubbing stations will also be scattered along the trail, adding an artistic touch to the adventure.

"This fantastic celebratory trail is set to captivate Gruffalo fans of all ages, offering a memorable and educational experience amidst the beauty of our fabulous forests.

"Mark your calendars for 2024, as the Gruffalo's 25th birthday promises to be an adventure you won't want to miss."

For those looking to enhance their experience, an accompanying trail pack will be available to buy on-site for £4.

Chester and District Standard: The celebratory trail will run all year longThe celebratory trail will run all year long (Image: Forestry England/Crown copyright)

These will include a festive party headband to get you into the party spirit, an activity leaflet for curious minds, stickers, pencils and crayons to get creative, and a woven Gruffalo sew-on patch as a cherished keepsake.

For more information and updates on this new trail, visit forestryengland.uk/gruffalo-party-trail.