SOME of Enid Blyton's most popular characters, originally based in Purbeck locations, are to make a comeback.

The Famous Five, the Faraway Tree and Malory Towers will all be revisited in 20 new books planned by the author's estate.

The Famous Five will be the first to return, with a grown-up Julian, Dick, Anne and George trying to solve the Mystery of the Royal Dragon of Siam.

But whereas the original books were littered with thinly-disguised references to Dorset landmarks like Brownsea Island and Corfe Castle - which inspired Kirrin Island and Whispering Island, it remains to be seen whether this will continue with the new books.

Blyton spent much of her time in the Swanage area as she churned out 21 Famous Five books, as well as other favourites like the Noddy stories.

She would often write at a table set up in front of the clubhouse at the Isle of Purbeck golf club and eventually bought the club with part of the proceeds.

Chorion, which owns the rights to the much-loved characters, said the new books would "remain true to Blyton's classic storytelling style and values."

Jeff Norton said: "Blyton's stories have been enjoyed by millions over the years and there is a huge demand for more of her magical storytelling.

"Blyton was passionate in her advocacy of child literacy and as guardians of her estate we see it as our duty to continue that legacy.

"By creating new stories that capture Blyton's values of imagination, wonder, thrills and happy endings, we hope to complement her original and ongoing titles and bring joy to millions more children in the years to come."