A cracking month of fun is underway in Alton as a trail-blazing scheme has made a welcome return.

Eggs-citement is building as families, children and visitors have been following the Alton Easter Trail.

Participants are challenged to find 24 beautifully decorated eggs in the town council-organised event.

The eggs designed by Alton College nursery toddlers and children who attended Wild House Play Café craft sessions are hidden in shop windows around town.

Successful sleuths can claim a free prize while youngsters can also design their own by downloading an activities sheet.

Completed designs should be handed in to Alton Town Council before Tuesday, April 22, as there’s a further chance to win a special prize.

“This is an egg-cellent way to bring people into the town centre during the Easter Holidays,” said Alton town mayor, councillor Annette Eyre.

“It’s fun, it’s free, and it encourages families to explore and support our wonderful local businesses. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting for the holidays, come and enjoy a bit of Easter magic in Alton.”

Trail map sheets can be collected from more than a dozen shops and businesses in the town centre with Alton Model Centre, The Maltings, Dill and Specsavers among the many stockists.

They can also be downloaded from www.alton.gov.uk/easter-trail with ATC expressing a heartfelt thanks to the “amazing sponsors and participating businesses” taking part.

The link has been especially good for headline sponsor, The Market Hotel, Bar and Restaurant, as the trail coincides with a milestone.

A spokesperson said: “On April 18 the Market House will be celebrating one year under new owners Martin and Stacy.

“So we are honoured to be the main sponsors of this year’s Easter Trail and look forward to working with ATC and participating in more community events.”