Mot the dog and his Park ranger master, Meg, are the stars of a bright and breezy comic-style booklet which was launched last Friday.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Pembrokeshire National Park and produced by the National Park Authority, the 16 page booklet is packed with fun facts, puzzles, activities - and a collection of ranger's bad jokes!

Aimed at the children to do in their free time - rather than linked with the national curriculum - this is an exciting 'first' for the Friends and the Park Authority.

Brian Powdrill, of the Friends, said: "This all came about following chats we had with National Park rangers and we agreed there was a need for a publication for children.

"The aim is to raise awareness of the National Park and the need to look after it. The booklet includes a section on the work of the Friends and the other National Parks in Britain.

"The Friends are delighted to sponsor this publication and we are very pleased with the way it has turned out. This new venture extends our efforts to encourage children to understand and enjoy the National Park."

Much of the text has been written by Elaine Jones, the National Park's interpretation officer, and the comic style illustrations have come from freelance cartoonist Colin Shelbourn working with the Park Authority's graphic designer, Brian Southern.

Said Elaine: "The booklet takes the children on a journey through the National Park in the company of Meg and Mot - from the coast path to the beaches, islands, woodlands and historic sites. Each section has a hidden Reggie the Razorbill, a ranger's Bad Joke, an incredible fact, as well as advice from Mot on how to behave in the countryside."

Entitled 'National Park Adventure', the booklet was officially launched by Welsh Assembly Minister, Carwyn Jones, during his visit to the new National Park headquarters at Llanion Park, Pembroke Dock. Mr Jones took copies of the booklet home with him for his two children.

Copies are available for a bargain £1 from National Park Visitor Centres and tourist information centres and will also be distributed free of charge during ranger visits to local schools. There are separate English and Welsh versions.

• For further information, contact the National Park's education service on 01646 624855.