HUNDREDS of children participated in an Easter hunt to find bunnies dotted around shops in Knutsford on Saturday.

The event was part of the second annual Bunny Hop, which attracted a record 300 entries from children determined to track down the toy rabbits, discover their names and be in with a chance of winning this year's competition.

One of the organisers, Julia Chard, from Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe, had circulated more than 1,700 entry forms to 12 local primary schools in towns and villages including Knutsford, Peover, Mobberley and Goostrey.

Julia said:"The children had to find eight bunnies in various shops around Knutsford and write down their names to enter the competition. Many of the children were wearing bunny ears and the shops were giving away Easter treats. The restaurant manager at Gusto even dressed up as a white rabbit."

A face painting event held at the sweet shop also raised £112 for the Children's Adventure Farm Trust.

Julia added: "We have already had feedback from Peter Murray, the owner of Pulse of Perfumery, who described Saturday's event as 'amazing'.

"It was a great community event and I loved every minute of it, and by afternoon, even the sun came out. I would like to thank all the families that took part. We are now planning our next event the Pumpkin Path for Halloween."

As the Guardian went to press the names of the winners of this year's Bunny Hop were still being decided.

Check out next week's paper for the results.