Shoppers had a big surprise this weekend, as a nine-foot tall white rabbit hopped into the Arndale Centre.

Children’s entertainer and magician Dave Illidge, who is also known as Dozy Dave, took to the shopping centre with his rabbit friend Harvey to entertain families on the first day of the summer holidays.

Harvey is a giant suit, specially made by a corporate mascot company, which creates the illusion that the rabbit is carrying Dave in a giant top hat.

Dave said: “We bought Harvey about 12 months ago. The company makes a lot of mascots, but we wanted one specially made.

“It’s extremely warm to wear, but it’s also a lot of fun. I always enjoy myself just as much as the people I’m entertaining.

“People are always trying to work out how Harvey moves. One person thought his legs might be robotic!”

Dave has worked as a children’s entertainer since 1996, and previously sold tricks to magicians, including the famous Paul Daniels.

He said: “After my children were born, we would get in entertainers for their parties, and I would think, ‘I can do that!’ Now the business has gone from strength to strength.”