HUNDREDS of families met the man behind one of the world’s best-loved monsters.

Axel Scheffler, co-creator of The Gruffalo, visited Chorley’s Astley Hall to chat to fans and sign copies of the books.

The illustrator was in town, along with popular children’s character himself for the launch of the art gallery’s new exhibition The Art of Axel Scheffler.

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Along with getting the chance to meet The Gruffalo, children and adults got to enjoy a day of Gruffalo-related activities.

These included going on a Gruffalo trail in the Walled Garden, meeting some of the animals that appear in the story, making a stick man and watching The Gruffalo film in a magical setting in The Coach House.

There were story-telling sessions and everyone had the chance to get the first glimpse of the new Astley Hall exhibition.

The Axel Scheffler exhibit will be on display in the hall’s art gallery until Sunday, December 20 and will be open from noon until 4.30pm every weekend and Monday to Wednesday during the school holidays.

Councillor Bev Murray, who is responsible for the Astley complex at Chorley Council said: “We had so many happy children and parents come down to enjoy the opening of the Axel Scheffler exhibit.

“Everyone was really pleased with all the activities and had so much fun seeing Astley Hall and Coach House turn into a magical location where they could enjoy the theme of their favourite characters. We are very proud to be holding the Art of Axel Scheffler exhibit here at Astley Hall.

Astley Hall will holding a number of other events over the next few months.

On Monday, October 26, the Big Draw with Wayne Hill will see children using the Axel Scheffler exhibition to create their own monsters On Saturday, October 31, the Little BOO! Room on the Broom will be a storytelling and crafts afternoon.

On Sunday, November 8, the Snail and the Whale event will see storytelling and crafts.

To book email astley.hall@chorley.gov.uk or call 01257 515151.