A NEW activity trail for children will bring a touch of magic to Dalby Forest in the new year.

A self-led trail through the trees will be based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s children’s picture book, Zog.

In the story, the loveable - if somewhat clumsy - dragon Zog learns skills at school including flying, roaring, breathing fire and capturing princesses.

Forestry Commission England is now inviting children to step into the forest classroom to learn lessons just like Zog, including how animals fly, what sounds they make and how they catch their prey.

As well as this educational element, there will be gold stars to win and hidden images that children can find using a coloured lens in their £3 activity pack, which also includes a Zog mask, activity sheets, a pencil and stickers.

Launching on January 11, the trail will follow the premiere of the animated special on BBC One this Christmas.

It follows the success of the similar Gruffalo, Stick Man and Highway Rat trails at Forestry Commission sites across England.

Tanya Nesbitt-Rex, recreation and public affairs manager said: "The trail will be an amazing adventure, encouraging visitors to make the most of the winter season and beyond in our beautiful forest.

"We are very excited to be working with Magic Light Pictures again and are looking forward to families having a new and exciting reason to visit Dalby Forest this winter."