The new Croc in the Frock tours will be officially launched at the Big DoG children’s book festival today.
And the Mostly Ghostly team behind the venture are planning an exciting summer of Croc tours, with the aim of inspiring young people to get into reading, writing and experiencing local literature in its richly varied forms.
Inspired by the famous crocodile in Peter Pan, Croc in the Frock promises a feast of ghosts, history, adventure and folklore.
Along with her pirate minions, she will guide guests on an interactive family-friendly riverside walk, weaving together elements of Dumfries’s rich literary connections.
Mostly Ghostly founder Kathleen Cronie said: “Mary Wood – our beloved team member – will take on the role of Croc in the Frock – a ‘snappy’ name and fantastic ‘hook’!
“The Croc, attired in a unique outfit featuring local literary scenes, will be an endearing, larger than life character, who accompanied by her pirate minions, will present stories of Dumfries to children, families and the young at heart.”
Her eye catching costume has been created by Ryan Watson, from the Big Burns Supper, and Kathleen added: “The Croc is the star of the show and needed the right person to capture the essence of what we were aiming for – Ryan has been simply superb. With such a wealth of experience behind him and creative flair in abundance, Ryan has bowled us over with his interpretation of the Croc, and we’re buzzing at the prospect of introducing her to our first guests this Friday!”
And Mary Wood is looking forward the new challenge, saying: “I can’t wait to see the children’s faces when they meet the Croc, it’s going to be an exciting tour, full of fun and interaction, and one that promotes learning. We hope it will inspire the children to discover local books and authors, and nurture the joy of reading.”