FAMILIES visiting the Eden Project this week are being treated to an event bursting with creativity, colour, imagination, and doodling.

Taking place until February 19, the half-term programme sees Eden partnering with the team behind Tom Gates, the popular book and TV series by author and illustrator Liz Pichon.

During the event, children are being inspired to get creative Tom Gates-style by making their mark on some wacky food sculptures in the Mediterranean Biome, and following a brilliant bug trail through the Rainforest Biome leaving no leaf unturned.

Falmouth Packet: Children are being inspired to get creative Tom Gates-style by making their mark on some wacky food sculptures Children are being inspired to get creative Tom Gates-style by making their mark on some wacky food sculptures (Image: Eden Project)

Workshops are also taking place where visitors can learn tips and tricks on how to doodle and draw. The workshops run three times a day and availability is limited.

There is an additional charge of 50p to attend a drawing workshop and those wishing to take part must book their space in advance.

There is also the opportunity for families to settle down with a Tom Gates classic in a cosy reading nook in preparation for World Book Day on March 2.

Falmouth Packet: There is also the opportunity for families to settle down with a Tom Gates classic There is also the opportunity for families to settle down with a Tom Gates classic (Image: Eden Project)

As part of the programme, Eden has extended its usual free entry for children under five to all those aged 16 or under, allowing every adult visitor to bring a child for free.

Kate Francis, Eden’s Living Theatre Producer, said: “Our half-term programme is off to a fantastic start with families truly enjoying interacting with one of Britain’s best-loved children’s brands.

Falmouth Packet: Eden has extended its usual free entry for children under five to all those aged 16 or underEden has extended its usual free entry for children under five to all those aged 16 or under (Image: Eden Project)

“We’re delighted to be working with the team behind Tom Gates and we hope those visiting us this week have a wonderful time immersing themselves in the brilliant world of Tom Gates.”

Liz Pichon’s award-winning Tom Gates book series has sold more than 14 million copies around the world and has been translated into 47 languages.

Falmouth Packet: Liz Pichon’s award-winning Tom Gates book series has sold more than 14 million copies around the world Liz Pichon’s award-winning Tom Gates book series has sold more than 14 million copies around the world (Image: Eden project)

The series has won the Roald Dahl Funny Prize, the Blue Peter Book Award for Best Story and the younger fiction category of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize.

Each of the 20 books is a rich mix of stories, music, mischief and a whole lot of doodles. Tom’s everyday trials and tribulations at home and school immerse readers in a relatable world, wherever they live.

Falmouth Packet: There will also be a bug trail through the Rainforest BiomeThere will also be a bug trail through the Rainforest Biome (Image: Eden project)

The success of the series has led to Tom being brought to life in two award-winning TV series, The Brilliant World of Tom Gates. The series airs on Sky Kids and NOW and has won a BAFTA Scotland and a British Animation Award.

This week also provides the last opportunity this season for visitors to treat themselves to a final glide on Eden’s ever-popular ice rink.