Over the next few months, Moors Valley Country Park will be inviting the public to join in its celebrations through a host of events and activities.

It has already kicked-off the festivities by opening two new attractions.

A giant new sculpture, known as the Hawkhouse, measuring five metres tall and with wings extending to more than 18 metres wide now stands along the play trail.

It was created by Hampshire artist Andy Frost and his team and is inspired by the Harris hawks flown at Moors Valley.

Last month, the park unveiled its new Highway Rat Activity Trail, which is inspired by the book of the same name written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

Brought to life in the forest setting thanks to a partnership between the Forestry Commission and Magic Light Pictures, visitors to the woodland trail follow in the footsteps of the mischievous rodent who travels along the highway looking for sweet treats to steal.

Also new to the park are some new friends to join the giant sculptures of The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child in the deep dark wood.

To celebrate the arrival of the new storybook characters, The Gruffalo himself will be making special appearances at the park between 10am and 2pm on Saturday, February 24 and Sunday, February 25.

On Saturday, March 10, the park is hosting an Accessible Activity Day and inviting visitors of all ages and abilities to get out and about and enjoy its accessible facilities including accessible cycling, audio trail, sensory nature table and pond dipping.

Then, to coincide with ‘Dippy on Tour’ at Dorset County Museum, the Ranger Den will be taking on a dinosaur twist with visitors able to try their hand at fossil hunting between April 2 and 6 and again from April 9 to 13.

The Moors Valley Railway’s Steam Gala will take place on 9 and 10 June, ahead of the park’s ‘Big Birthday Bash’ 30th anniversary celebration on July 15.

While autumn highlights will include a Wood Fair on September 30, a Halloween party on October 27 and 28 and some stunning wildlife photography by Brian Chard in November before the Christmas-themed events begin.

Emma Reeks, engagement ranger said, “With our 30th anniversary this year, 2018 is a major milestone for Moors Valley and we’d like to encourage everyone to come along and join in our celebrations.”