A T-REX has been let loose among shoppers.

The baby dinosaur roared into action at Gateshead MetroCentre to promote a show about prehistoric life.

But the fearsome beast showed its soft side by letting pupils from St Peter’s Primary School, in Gateshead, tickle it under the chin.

Next month, a live show featuring 15 life-sized dinosaurs will be at the Metro Arena, in Newcastle.

The show is based on the award-winning BBC TV series Walking With Dinosaurs.

A spokesman said: “The BBC series was a brilliant blend of special effects, escapism, excitement and information. Our show brings together all of that, plus something extra – it’s live.”

The show will be staged from July 7 to 12. Tickets are £20 to £45, on 0844-875- 9000 or at dinosaurlive.com