Splat, the lead character in Shelltown animation - an idea spearheaded by Patricia Sparkes from Ballymoney - appeared in the Macy's Thanksgiving
Parade in New York to help kick off the US holiday season yesterday.

He appeared alongside a giant Shrek, Snoopy and Kermit the Frog.

The character - described as a 'good egg' - was seen by millions of
Americans who lined the Manhattan streets and watched on television.
A number of colourful floats, cartoon characters, celebrities and marching
bands participated in the spectacular annual event.

Splat was able to fly direct from Belfast International Airport with
Continental Airlines, who is backing the cartoon project.

Co-creator Bernard Sparkes said: "It is a great opportunity for Splat to be
seen across the world as the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade is one of the
biggest held in America.

"We were in Times Square on Wednesday and he got a great reception, everyone loves him."

Mr Sparkes said he hopes the American appearance will boost interest in
developing the Shelltown characters further.

The invite to be involved in the parade arose after Mr Sparkes promoted
Shelltown in America.