CHILDREN and parents alike are eagerly awaiting the release of animation sensation Finding Dory – and now Trafford families can catch a glimpse of the bright blue fishy friend.

SEA LIFE Manchester has teamed up with Disney Pixar for a special Finding Dory exhibition.

The two-month event kicks off on Saturday July 16 and will run until Sunday September 11.

Visitors will be led on an interactive trail by one of the new Disney Pixar movie’s star sea creatures Hank (voice of Ed O’Neill), a cantankerous Octopus.

“Hank will appear in displays right through each centre, revealing amazing fishy facts and providing collectible ‘letters’ which will need unscrambling at the end of the journey to earn a reward,” said event organiser Jamie Turner.

“Like Finding Nemo before it, the new film is likely to inspire an interest in marine life among millions of children, which is why we’re delighted to be associated with it.”

Finding Dory is the sequel to the hugely successful 2003 animation Finding Nemo.

Finding Dory tells the story of Dory’s quest to find her own family, with the help of the famous Nemo and Marlin. It opens in UK cinemas on July 29.

“We have many of the real sea creatures in our displays that the film’s characters are based on,” said Jamie.

“With their help we think we can reinforce the messages which are at the heart of the film, about the importance of looking after our seas and of sharing experiences with family and friends.”

For further information or to pre-book tickets online before your visit please go to visitsealife.com/manchester. Reduced prices are available for tickets booked in advance.