THE picturesque village of Eastcombe is set to be invaded by gnomes once again this year for the annual gnome hunt.

Families are being welcomed to follow a trial around the beautiful village and gardens of Eastcombe to track down hidden gnomes on Saturday, June 21 and Sunday, June 22.

The trial will begin at the same time over the weekend from 2pm until 5pm and there will also be an optional section venturing into the stunning Toadsmoor Valley for the more adventurous types.

Starting at Eastcombe Primary School there will be stalls and games, finishing at the village hall for cream teas.

Ice-creams will be available along the pushchair friendly route.

Participants are invited to find the gnomes, collect the clues and solve the puzzle for the chance to win a gnome.

Finishers of the cross country trial through the valley and woodland will receive a gnome medal.

The gnome hunt is organised by Eastcombe school association and they hope to top the record takings last year of £2,300.

New toys, furniture and ICT equipment was bought with the money for the small village primary school.