A SCULPTURED play trail designed around the legend of the 'Childe of Hale' John Middleton opened on Saturday (April 2) at Speke Hall.

St Helens children's author Rachel Lyon, who wrote 'The Cautionary Tale of the Childe of Hale' based on the story of the gentle 9'3" giant, visited the National Trust park to sign copies of her book.

The fairy tale trail was launched over the weekend with events including a promenade theatre throughout the grounds, a hunt for the gentle giant and readings from Rachel's book.

Rachel said: "I'd grown up hearing stories of the Childe of Hale. When my great-grandmother was young she worked as a servant in Hale, she loved the village so it became a favourite place for the family to visit.

"When I read online the incredible history of The Childe's life, his encounter with King James and the fact he slept with his feet dangling through the windows I thought 'children would love him, why has no one written his story for children?', and so I did. I sent it to some publishers and Maverick loved it and signed it.

"I took some flowers and left them on the Childe's grave as a little thank you for lending me his life story and helping me fulfill my dream of becoming an author."

She added: "I've been a National Trust member since my early 20s; heritage and history fascinate me, and Speke Hall is somewhere I've visited many, many times.

"It still gives me goosebumps every time I see it, it's so atmospheric and magical, and when you're there you feel like you're stepping back in time. I'm so thrilled that The Childe of Hale is being remembered there in such an imaginative and exciting way - children will love it!"

The new addition to Speke Hall's outdoor play area connects the existing playground and maze to the woodland play area with zip wire and den building.

Simon Osborne, general manager at National Trust Liverpool Properties, said: "The decision to theme the trail was an easy one: The Childe of Hale resided locally and was a frequent visitor to Speke Hall. Added to which his portrait hangs in the Great Hall. The themed trail adds to what makes Speke Hall, distinctive, unique and cherished."