Youngsters who spent their half-term holidays exploring one Fenland town were joined by a rather surprising visitor. 

Those using the 'Love Exploring' mobile app in Whittlesey were treated to a bespoke computer-generated image of the town’s Straw Bear.

The Straw Bear features on Fenland District Council’s Whittlesey Heritage Walk [WHW], designed by local experts to encourage people to explore the town’s history. 

In January, the town’s annual Straw Bear Festival returned following cancellations due to Covid-19. 

Councillor Chris Seaton, the council’s portfolio holder for heritage, is pleased with the Straw Bear’s involvement in the WHW. 

He said: “The latest additions to this app will add extra excitement to an already fantastic activity that helps to get kids out and about all year round, not just during half-term.” 

The 'Love Exploring' app providers users with different ways to explore a place, such as trails and walking routes as well as discovery games and activities. 

In the WHW, app users can also add a riverside walk or follow routes to areas such as the Kings Dyke Nature Reserve. 

Those without access to a smartphone can also enjoy the trail by following information boards in Whittlesey, which feature details including historic photographs and facts.