It has been millions of years since dinosaurs roamed the Earth – but the fearsome sight could soon be spotted again in Cumbria thanks to a unique experience launching later this year.

People will be able to get up close and personal with the famous velociraptor as Dinosaur Encounter Cumbria has acquired a fully animatronic, 13ft-long recreation of the predator.

The robot dinosaur, named ‘Blue', will be like those used at Universal Studios' Jurassic World ride across the Atlantic, inspired by the hit film of the same name.

The dinosaur is set to arrive in the county in June with encounters available to be booked from July.

The company's team, also known as rangers, will take the animatronic dinosaur on tour and teach facts about the reptile, as well as offering the chance to command it to do tricks and pose for a photograph.

The rangers will also venues or homes and can cater for birthdays, school visits, outdoor festivals and businesses.

Ranger Siobhan Harkness said: “Due to Blue being 13ft long, it’s not possible for us to come into your home or climb stairs but we can carry out our dinosaur encounters in your garden, on your street and can also recommend local venues to hire to host your special event.”

Just like the animatronics used in films and on displays at the National History Museum in London, New York, and select theme parks, Blue will look very realistic.

Blue will be arriving by boat, with the rangers due to collect it from Portsmouth.

Siobhan, said: “We will have to learn how to operate it and that will be loads of fun. I can’t wait to get going with it.”

Already popular, our reader's discussed their thoughts on the encounter going ahead this summer.

Chris Johnson, said: "I need to keep a look out for this."

Kathleen Cayne, said: "This is so fascinating, can't wait to see it."

Lillie Miller, said: "The kids told us to get this booked for the wedding."

Gemma Marie Banks, said: "Already booked and so excited."

James Taylor, said: "This is so cool."