Shropshire Star

Meet The Gruffalo at Market Drayton farm

A popular children's tale will come to life at an event in Shropshire this summer.

Published
Oliver Murray-Brooks age 3 with the Gruffalo

Little ones have chance to meet The Gruffalo at Fordhall Farm in Market Drayton.

The much-loved Julia Donaldson character will be wandering out of the deep dark woods and visiting the farm on Monday, August 25.

The Gruffalo features the tale of a cunning mouse who avoids dangerous encounters with a fox, an owl and a snake, with what he thought was a figment of his imagination.

Children are welcome to have their picture snapped with the prickly monster, who has been sweeping the nation with a host of story books and films, since first being published in 1999.

There are two sessions on August 25 - one at 10.30am until 12.30pm and the other at 1.30pm until 3.30pm.

The cost is £3.50 per child and the event is suitable for all ages.

The Gruffalo is just one of many events being held at Fordhall Farm this summer.

Charlotte Hollins, manager, said: "The summer events are aimed at helping youngsters understand the importance of the countryside and wildlife surrounding the farm.

“There is a summer holiday programme which runs for two days each week throughout August catering for ages from two to 16.”

Maria Bagnall, events officer, said: "Activities range from story time with the Gruffalo to making beauty products from natural ingredients such as lip balms and face creams, bush craft, raft building and a fire starting class.

"We also have everyone's favourite event - pond and river dipping – taking place where visitors might spot the odd otter, eel, crayfish or even the secretive kingfishers living within the diverse and stunning countryside.”

Each week activities are geared towards children aged four and above and also the 11 to 16 age group. More information can be found on www.fordhallfarm.com