THEY are almost as familiar at Christmas as Santa and snowmen.

And now there will be 20 Nutcracker Kings along a trail in Bournemouth as part of the festive celebrations.

The 6ft figures will be along the route devised by the Town Centre BID from November 17.

According to German folklore, the toys were given as keepsakes to bring good luck.

Trail leaflets will be available from schools and outlets in the town.

Echo reader have the chance to name one of Nutcrackers and win a family ticket for Bournemouth’s Christmas outdoor ice-rink.

Send your suggested name and send via email to: Steve Hughes, Bournemouth Town Centre BID manager at steve@towncentrebid.co.uk by mid-day on Friday October 28.

Remember to include your name, address, and daytime contact telephone number.

Steve said: “The nutcrackers will be part of our fantastic Christmas offer which will attract thousands of visitors to our town centre. According to the fairytale the nutcrackers were fierce protectors, so we will be looking for a name that reflects those qualities whether it be modern or traditional.”