Mansfield people looking to test their powers of deduction and pit their wits against an ancient criminal fraternity could help to solve a centuries old mystery and save a professor who has gone missing.

This August, Mansfield BID, the organisation that co-ordinated the recent Party On The Market, is presenting a “truly immersive gaming experience for would-be detectives and adventurers”.

The town centre’s streets will become a life-sized game board for Casefile: The Mystery of the Star-Eaters, where players will be invited to take on the role of “consulting detective”.

Players will be asked to follow clues, question witnesses and solve puzzles. The amateur sleuths will be taken on a journey of discovery around Mansfield’s landmarks as they investigate a mystery that would test even the great Mr Holmes.

Mansfield town centre’s free Wi-Fi will be available, allowing players to crack clues, unravel a web of intrigue, unearth ancient treasure and reveal the truth behind a thousand-year-old legend.

Devised by graphic designer Stephen Blackwell, the game is best enjoyed when played in teams of between two and six people.

While the main investigation takes approximately two or three hours, the event will be running continuously throughout the day so players can stop and start whenever they choose, even taking time out for lunch and shopping.

And with free entry for the under 12s and a dedicated children’s mini-mystery game running concurrently, Casefile: The Mystery of the Star-Eaters makes for a day of unique entertainment for all of the family.

Stephen Blackwell said: “The idea was to genuinely replicate the feel of a real investigation and the best way to do that was to make the most of real locations.

“Working with a number of businesses throughout the town centre, we’ve been able to create an excitingly immersive experience for our players.

“Last year’s launch of Pokemon Go showed that there is a real appetite among gamers for more than just staring at a computer screen; The Mystery of the Star-Eaters gets players using their body and brain in equal measures, and having a lot of fun along the way.”

Touring nationally, Casefile: The Mystery of the Star-Eaters, which has been featured by BBC Radio, the Metro and in VisitEngland’s influential blog, are transforming towns and cities up and down the country, landing in Mansfield on Saturday August 12.

Sarah Nelson, BID manager, said: “This is a fun and different way to spend the day with friends and family.

“That’s why we’re so pleased to bring this event to Mansfield and to be able to fund this huge discount code for residents.

“I can’t wait to see Mansfield transformed into a life-sized whodunit, and it’s been a fantastic opportunity for local actors and volunteers to get involved.”

With the aim of giving players of all ages a great day out in the town centre, Mansfield BID has part-funded the event so that tickets will get a 50 per cent discount with an exclusive discount code.

Adult tickets cost just £6 with the offer code (accompanied under 12 year-olds are free).

To buy an advance ticket visit: www.bit.do/casefile

Simply enter MBID2OFF at the checkout to receive the discount.