SOLIHULL schoolchildren are being called on to track down magical creatures who will be taking over the borough high streets this half term.
There will be 10 Mexican folk-art inspired ‘Alebrije’ creatures prowling around Shirley, Chelmsley Wood, Knowle and Balsall Common from October 11 to November 8.
The trail, which is supported by the European Regional Development Fund, is augmented reality – families point their smartphone at a QR code on a business window or at a park and watch the creatures come to life on the screen.
Solihull Council has teamed up with High Street Safari to encourage families to discover their local high streets and their independent businesses, while trying to find the 10 creatures hidden across the borough.
The trail is a story-driven experience that players can complete in any order and, while being engaging, is designed to encourage people to get out, do some walking, and discover hidden parts of the Borough’s local parades.
Alebrije is a form of folk art that originated in Mexico where animals, both real and fantastical, are ornately decorated with colourful patterns and motifs.
The creatures have been specially commissioned for the trail and five of them have been modelled in 3D for augmented reality.
Once the creatures come to life families can they can take selfies or even record movies with them.
Councillor Karen Grinsell, deputy leader of Solihull Council said: “We are encouraging families to go out and explore their local independent businesses through this new and exciting trail, supporting our high streets and keeping children entertained during the school holidays.
“This is part of a programme of activities and events co-ordinated through the Council to support our towns and local centres and to give visitors more reasons to enjoy their local area.”
The trail takes about forty-five minutes to complete but can be completed in more than one visit.
It’s completely free for families and groups to take part in and they win an e-book at the end that concludes the story.
For more visit www.visitsolihull.co.uk or www.alebrijetrail.com
