The Naughty Elf on a Shelf Trail in Petersfield has become a runaway success, with excited children following it around the town with their parents.

And now the elves are moving shelves, so it could be time for a second go at spotting them all!

Hectors Menswear and Hire in Chapel Street, owned by Joe and Michelle Bicknell, came up with idea of finding scores of elves a new home in 72 town-centre shop and business windows.

Using a map, youngsters can track them down and identify them.

Natalie Bird of Hectors said: “Last week has been busy in Petersfield with many families on the hunt for the mischievous elves that had left our shop.

“It has already been a huge success, encouraging people of all ages to explore all of Petersfield.

“The trail starts near the station and goes down to the Folly Market in College Street.

“There have been some naughty – and not so child friendly elves – in some situations, but most importantly it is giving everyone a giggle in the lead-up to Christmas.

“It has been wonderful watching local playgroups walking through the town and having noses pressed against the glass – and the occasional lick of the glass has also been seen!

“Some shops are changing their elves to a new shelf so it’s worth popping around again.

“We have had great feedback from shoppers saying they have now discovered new stores and it has opened their eyes to what is available in Petersfield – there’s no need to go further afield for your Christmas shopping!”

The trail map is available from Hectors, and can also be emailed if people can’t get to the shop.

And much to the surprise of the organisers, it wasn’t just shops which wanted to find homes for the elves.

Town-centre bakeries, coffee shops, estate agents, wine merchants, opticians and dentists all wanted a piece of the elf action.

The elf now calling the Bakery Lane Vinyl Matters record shop home seems more than comfortable sitting on 1960s Mod scooter.

Shop owner Steve MacGuinness said: “The elf trail is a great idea and lots of fun – there have been loads of children following the trail and looking in our window to spot our elf.”

Natalie added: “The trail continues until after Christmas Day, maybe even into the new year, so there’s plenty of time left to get out and find those naughty elves.”

The Naughty Elf on a Shelf trail has also raised more than £300 for Petersfield hospice at home charity, the Rosemary Foundation.

To get a trail map email Hectors on [email protected] or call 07305 899573.