Schools get free copies of kids' book based on the Rutland panther
Is the mysterious Rutland beast REALLY real?
The launch of a children's book based off the story of Rutland's legendary panther will take place at Sykes Lane today.
Oncar's Adventure at Rutland Water, written by Whissendine author Tracey Dene Powell, tells the tale of Rutland's mysterious creature to teach kids about the wonderful nature the county has to offer.
Thanks to local sponsors, copies have been sent to every primary school in Rutland, and they aren't being sold online - but, fans can grab one by messaging Tracey.
Before publishing, a draft of the book was even sent to pupils at Langham Primary School to make sure they enjoyed it.
Ms Powell said they did, and they came back with a suggestion:
'They said "please can we have a map". So we designed this map, but what's so wonderful is that it's the Anglers Map that they use at Rutland Water. So there's these beautiful names in the book like New Zealand Point, Carrot Corner; all these different names that we haven't made up at all.'
The author added: 'Not only can this book be used as a real good, unique, educational tool for teachers to use in the classroom, but also it's going to be invaluable for parents and families to bring story time back to children and to go to Rutland Water and follow the panther's trail.'
Is the Rutland panther REALLY real?
The book's author, Tracey Dene Powell, said, although she's not seen the beast herself, there's lots of reason to believe it's real:
'There have been sightings of a panther, so it's all the more exciting for children. It brings Oncar alive for them. This is actually a panther from Rutland.
I haven't personally seen it but there is a society set up - The Leicestershire and Rutland Panther Watch - there's a lot of people out there that have said they've seen it.
Every time I talk to people about the book, they either know someone that's seen it - or they've seen it themselves.'