He is one of the world's best loved monsters and now an interactive trail will bring the Gruffalo and other characters from the books to life.

The Gruffalo Spotter app will launch at High Lodge in Thetford Forest next month.

Youngsters will follow clues through the deep dark wood which will lead to five different footprint markers in the forest - for each one of the characters in the book.

When the markers are spotted a person can point their phone camera at them which uses the app to bring the characters to life with them appearing to blend in within the forest.

The photos are automatically added to the phone's camera gallery, from where it can be shared via social media with the hashtag #GruffaloSpotters.

Tim Frost, High Lodge manager for Forestry Commission England, said: 'This is such an exciting development and will deliver a completely different forest experience for our visitors.

'The Gruffalo is a world renowned story and to be able to bring the characters to life in their natural setting is fantastic. It's great we've had the opportunity to join the two worlds of technology and nature together sensitively.'

Forestry Commission England joined Magic Light Pictures to bring to life the characters written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

The trail will be held at 25 other forest locations around England and will open at Thetford Forest on Monday, March 13.

For more information about the trail visit http://www.forestry.gov.uk/gruffalo