THE UK’s largest animatronic dinosaur was revealed at the Lexicon today (August 2), kicking off the new T-Rex Encounter.

Dr Dean Lomax, internationally recognised multi-award-winning palaeontologist, presenter and author, unveiled the T-Rex.

The dinosaur stands at an impressive 18 metres long, eight metres high and boasts a deafening roar, moving eyes, head and tail.

Visitors to the town centre also had the opportunity to learn more about dinosaurs from Dean, as well as being able to see several fascinating fossils.

Sue Boor, head of marketing at The Lexicon said: “We are so excited to bring the T-Rex Encounter to The Lexicon.

“The enormous animatronic T-Rex is undoubtedly the star of the show but there are a whole host of other dino-activities on offer to keep all budding palaeontologists entertained throughout August.”

Jurassic Proms

On Saturday, August 3, from 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm in Bond Square, visitors can enjoy a celebration of Jurassic themed musical entertainment.

Local singer, songwriter Abi Powell will open the show, followed by The Spicy Ukulele Duo performing songs from; the 1920’s, 30’s, 40’s and 50’s and finally, Ducie Jazz, a collection of the finest jazz musicians will perform a range of cool jazz band tunes.

Dinosaur Hunt

From Friday, August 2 until Sunday August 11, adventurers young and old can take part in The Lexicon’s Dinosaur Hunt, as part of the town centre’s summer T-Rex Encounter.

Visitors will need to pick up a Dinosaur Hunt leaflet from a member of the T-Rex Explorers team based on The Avenue and then track down the location of the ten dinosaur models hidden in store windows around the town centre.

One lucky winner will win a family trip to the National History Museum’s Dino Snores, which includes entry into the Dino Snores for a family of four to explore a torch-lit trail, get creative with a dinosaur t-shirt-making workshop and an educational science show all rounded up with morning breakfast for the family.

Dino School

School’s not quite out for summer, with the arrival of The Lexicon’s Dino School taking place from Monday, August 12 until Friday, August 16.

These interactive, fun, education sessions in Princess Square are being run in association with The Look Out Discovery Centre, with palaeontology professors, T-Rex & Mrs Bones leading the fun-filled lessons.

Lessons will feature demonstrations of dino sounds, movements and mannerisms, as well as the chance to find out all about the fascinating lifestyle and eating habits of dinosaurs.

Entry to Dino School is a suggested donation of £2, with all money raised being donated to The Lexicon Charity Fund.

Dino School sessions will take place: 10am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

Lexisaurus Rex and Dino Tales

On Monday, August 19, Lexisaurus, the town centre’s very own baby dinosaur, will be roaming around Princess Square, on Thursday, August 22 in Union Square and on Monday, August 26 on The Avenue.

Lexisaurus will be accompanied by a personal keeper who will be on hand to answer those all-important Dino questions.

Younger visitors to The Lexicon will be sure to enjoy the interactive story telling sessions from costumed characters in Princess Square. The interactive Dino Tales will be letting young imaginations run wild by bringing best-selling children’s book, The Dinosaur that Pooped the Planet, to life.

Dino Tales will take place on Tuesday, August 20 and Friday, August 23 with sessions running at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm.

Dinosaur Snaps

Visitors will be able to recreate personalised Jurassic scenes throughout the T-Rex Encounter by popping their heads through the giant photo-boards, located in Braccan Walk and the other in Princess Square, and taking a picture.

Dinosaur Face Painting

On Saturdays, keep your eyes peeled for The Lexicon’s team of Dinosaur face painters who will be decorating faces, young and old with a variety of dino-themed designs.

The T-Rex Encounter runs from Friday, August 2 to Monday, August 26 2019. For more information about all events please visit www.thelexiconbracknell.com.