SHOPPERS visiting a retail park during the school holidays can expect to receive a larger than life welcome, as a giant Lego elephant and gorilla have arrived for the summer.

The brick animals, which are almost two and a half metres tall and can be found outside Mothercare at Teesside Shopping Park, have been built as part of a programme of free jungle-themed family activities running throughout the summer holidays.

The jungle takeover will also see the retail park host a range of free events for little ones every Wednesday and Thursday between 11am and 4pm.

There will also be a large sandpit, where children can search for rainforest critters while parents can relax on the seating area, and a jungle base camp full of puzzles and games.

Mike Clarke, centre director, said: “We have a lot of visitors to Teesside, but this is our first elephant and gorilla. I’m sure they’ll go down really well with families and I think there will be the odd selfie or two as well.

"We hope this will help parents keep the kids entertained throughout the summer holidays.”