CHILDREN and tourists in Malmesbury have been set a challenge to complete throughout the summer holiday in the shape of the Malmesbury Hare and Animal Trail.

The competition, which has been launched by Malmesbury Town Council, asks participants to get out and about around the town searching for animals dotted around town and hares that are part of the Cotswold Hare Trail.

There are four giant decorated Cotswold hares around Malmesbury along with five smaller leverets and a further 11 other animals to search for on signs, in shop windows or hiding in doorways.

Councillor Fran Vandelli, deputy mayor of Malmesbury and chair of the town council’s town and community promotion committee, said: “Animals have played an important part in Malmesbury’s history down the ages and still do so today.

“Many residents and visitors have already enjoyed spotting the four large painted hares in our town.

“The summer is an important time for local traders and community groups.

“We want to ensure visitors and families get to see everything Malmesbury has to offer.

“By following the Hare and Animal Trail and spotting all 20 animals featured on it, they will certainly do that.

“Our thanks to the brilliant artists who painted the nine hares, local businesses who have sponsored them and the many community organisations, businesses and residents whose animal images feature in the trail.”

The Malmesbury Hare and Animal Trail was launched at the town hall last week where trail maps can be picked up for free.

There is space to tick off all the hares you have visited and the chance to enter a prize draw.

For more information and to take part, call in at the tourist information centre at Malmesbury Town Hall.