The character was the star turn at the city council’s Picnic in the Gardens which drew thousands of children.

Among them was Howlong toddler Stevie Barker, 2, who was joined by her friend Indi Heffernan, 5, from Bowna.

“It’s the first time we’ve been and it’s fantastic for the girls because it’s free and we can bring a picnic,” Stevie’s mother Susan Barker said.

Asked what she liked best about the day, Indi fired back “having an ice-cream” as she polished off her bubble gum flavoured treat.

Other attractions included giant stilt walkers, with some dressed as flowers and others a dragonfly and praying mantis.

A giant chess set and woodworking tent also kept youngsters amused.