Dozens of animatronic dinosaurs descend on Heaton Park for school holidays

The Dinosaurs in the Park event has opened for the summer

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Dozens of life-sized dinosaurs have arrived at Heaton Park for an event running over the school holidays.

Around 40 animatronic beasts feature in the Dinosaurs in the Park event, which has transformed the place 'into a palaeontologist’s playground', delighting dino fans of every age.

Families can see classic favourites such as the Stegosaurus, Triceratops and Velociraptor, as well as the lesser-known Dilophosaurus, Kentrosaurus and Hypacrosaurus.

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As well as being able to wind your way along the Dinosaur Trail, there are puzzles to solve, and you can even carry out some Jurassic dentistry by brushing the teeth of the resident T-Rex.

After the trail there's a fun zone with hands-on activities included dino excavation digs, mini golf, a dino kingdom bouncy castle and mini soft play for under threes.

And guests can design their own dinosaur and watch it come to life on the screen and visit the palaeontologist tent to 'discover fossils, dinosaur dung and interesting facts'.

The event - billed as 'an educational and enjoyable day out for the whole family' - is running from July 20 to August 6, with all the activities included in the ticket price. Optional extra funfair rides are charged per ride.

And on two of the days, July 23 and August 5, there'll be a special appearance from a real-life palaeontologist, Manchester University’s Dr Dean Lomax.

The famed palaeontologist will be discussing all-things dinosaurs as well as answering questions, showcasing some of his fossil collection and there will even be an opportunity for children to bring their own fossils to show Dr Lomax, getting the chance to hear more about them as well as have them aged.

Tickets cost £10.50 for adults and children over three, plus booking fees. A family ticket costs £40. Book any time slot after 3pm to get 20% off. Visit the website to book.