HUNDREDS of children have been taking part in a summer search across Chipping Sodbury, scouring shop windows to find cuddly woodland animals.

The Sodbury Squirrel Search, which has been taking place throughout the school summer holidays, is in its third year and has been designed by the town’s Chamber of Commerce to bring younger people to the High Street, with squirrels and other animals the targets to be found in the windows of 30 businesses.

Hundreds have already entered in to competition, which end on Saturday, September 3, with winners being announced at the town’s food and drink festival on September 10, where they will win one of the cuddly toys as a prize.

To bring an extra educational element to the search, children in the town were given the chance to hear from wildlife experts Yvonne Cox from Hedgehog Rescue and Ian McGuire from Wild Owl TV, who brought some real life members of the Squirrel Search along for everyone to meet on August 3.

Jo Cox, chairman of the Chamber of Commerce said: “This year is the third year we have invited people to our town and it's been the most successful yet.

“The meet the animals session was a great way to bring the animals to life and build on the already popular theme.”

Rich McDonough from the Chamber added: “We had over 160 people come and visit, and the feedback we got was everyone really enjoyed themselves.

“There have been loads of pictures posted on social media and it is great to think the kids have learned some interesting facts about owls and hedgehogs.

“We must thank Ian and Yvonne plus Mike, Tina and the staff at the Beaufort hunt not to mention many members of the Chamber who gave up their busy time to help.”

To enter the Sodbury Squirrel search, or for more information, pick up a trail map from Chipping Sodbury library, Chipping Sodbury Tourist Information Centre or from any of the participating businesses.