Hampshire goes Where's Wally crazy (From Daily Echo)

Hampshire goes Where's Wally crazy

11:19am Thursday 7th March 2013 in News By Michael Carr, Reporter

Click here to play our Wally in Hampshire game

WHAT’S red and white and has been spotted across schools in Hampshire?

No it isn’t Saints kits, it’s Where’s Wally costumes, which have been flying off the shelves as children dress up as fictional characters for World Book Day today.

The character, known for his red and white top, blue jeans and bobble hat has been famous for hiding in pictures in different locations in the Where’s Wally books for more than 25 years.

The children’s books have sold millions and have even sparked a TV series and video games about his travels.

Demand for the red and white costumes has rocketed in Hampshire.

 

 

The Fancy Dress Shop in Portswood Road, Southampton has seen an 80 per cent rise on Wally costumes this year and have had to place an advance order for next year’s costumes.

Owner Jane Toppenden, 48, said: “I never expected demand be as mad as this. I ran out of stock and had to place an advance order to prepare for next year.”

Among those joining in the Wally phenomenon is Lisa Warren, deputy head of Highfield primary, who is dressing up as the character herself.

She said: “It’s just fun, he is so instantly recognisable.

“I think kids want to be someone that people will know who they are.”

Meanwhile Iain Lamming, coowner of October Books, said: “Wally has always been a popular children’s book – it’s interactive and gets children into reading before they can even read.”

To play our own Hampshire version of Where's Wally click here