LITTLE helpers can help Father Christmas search for lost toys in a festive city centre trail. 

The Great Elf Investigation is a free family walking trail, organised by the city’s BID team, and will run from Thursday (November 25) until January 3.

Children, and their big kids, are needed to help search for the toys, which have been 'stolen' by some cheeky elves.

READ MORE: Five places to see Santa across Hampshire this year

Luckily, while playing with the toys, the elves got a little carried away and started taking 'elf-ies’ with the stolen goods - and it’s up to families to spot the photo evidence in Southampton city centre’s shop windows.

Separated into two routes, trail-goers will have the chance to explore both the North and South poles of the city.

Participants can either draw or write down their answers, and then head to MAST Mayflower Studios, in Guildhall Square, or room2 hotel near Queen’s Park, to receive a special prize in return for their hard work.

Pupils at Maytree Infant School in Derby Road are ready to takek part.

Headteacher Jan Goatley said: "At Maytree we enjoy and value learning inside and outside the classroom. This walking trail provides a great opportunity for children and their families to stay active over the Christmas break, spend quality time with one another and explore Southampton city centre."

Trail maps that form part of the wider Southampton Christmas guide are being put into over 8,000 local primary school pupils' bookbags. The maps will also be available to download and print at home. Alternatively, visitors will be able to pick one up in a number of venues including Westquay Shopping Centre, The Marlands Shopping Centre and Southampton Central Train Station.

Stephen Manion, Executive Director at GO! Southampton, added: "There’s no doubt many of us will be looking for easy, cost-effective things to do to keep the kids entertained this Christmas.

“With this free trail, we hope to bring a bit of festive cheer to residents and visitors, while also ensuring that people keep coming into the city to support local businesses."

The trail will be open from 9am to 4pm Monday to Saturday, and 11am to 4pm on Sunday. All shops hosting clues will either be open or have clues clearly displayed in their windows.

Go to visitsouthampton.co.uk/christmas-trail for more details. 

 

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