GIANTS and mythical creatures will come to life at the launch of a new children’s picture book on the folklore of the Eden Valley.

Colourful read ‘Let the Giants Live’ will be revealed to youngsters for the first time at an event at Penrith Library on Saturday, November 26.

The book was written by Cumbrian author Jacqueline Harris and illustrated by Eden designer Jessica Mills with the help of nearly 20 local schools.

Miss Mills said: “The places that we have uncovered in this project, some right next to main roads and towns of Eden, still have energy as if they haven’t been touched in years and most people don’t know they exist. It is exciting to imagine the events that took place and the inception of the stories that have lasted there over many years.”

Tales include Viking and Arthurian legends associated with the Eden valley and feature the ghostly frolics of Peg Sleddle at Crackenthorpe Hall and the two quarrelling Trowgill giants, Guy and Garlic.

Both Ms Harris and Miss Mills will be running a free activity session for children age five to eight years old at 10.30 am at the launch event and a later sessioon for nine to 12-year-olds which starts at 11.30am.

The book was funded by Penrith Action for Community Transition, Cumbria County Council and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and an earlier part of the project was a parade of ‘giant’ sculptures at Penrith’s May Day celebrations.

The book will be available locally for £12.99 or online for £13.99 including P&P at www.penrithact.org.uk.