TRACTOR Ted is loved by children across the country, and now is their chance to meet him in person.

Ted is celebrating his fifth birthday with open days for all his fans at his home at Springleaze Farm at Norton St Phillip this weekend. Visitors will get the chance to explore the farm and see the animals and machinery as well as Ted himself.

There will be tractor and trailer rides to go and see the baby lambs and calves and a big Easter egg hunt as well as refreshments.

Tractor Ted is the brainchild of farmer David Horler and his friend Alexandra Heard, who lives in Chippenham.

The pair came up with the idea after their farming families made some home videos and found children were fascinated by the sight of the real animals and farm work they were seeing on the screen. Tractor Ted narrates stories actually filmed on the couple's working farm.

Not only are small children mesmerised by the sights of the animals and the big tractors and other machinery, but they also learn a lot about the country way of life.

Mr Horler said: "The seasons of farming are so diverse and such a lot happens on a farm that we have made the videos to entertain and educate children." The range of videos and DVDs based around farming life tell children all about animals, food, the seasons and processes such as milking while keeping them entertained and focussed.

Tractor Ted now travels to fairs, fetes and other events around the country. This year the creators have also launched the first in a series of books to compliment the programme and there is a range of children's clothing available.

Tractor Ted also has a fan club, and his young fans can get news about products and offers and are given a free welcome pack of stickers and a poster when they join.