IF ever there was a positive role model for children of all ages it’s Bear Grylls.

So it’s really good news that he’s becoming a cartoon hero after signing a deal to turn his schooldays into a series of animated adventures called Young Bear Grylls.

These follow 12 year-old Bear on expeditions and tests of his survival skills, while he still keeps up with his homework. The creators say it’s “all about bringing the spirit of adventure and exploration to young kids in a way that fires their imagination and brings out the survivor in them all.”

This is a brilliant way to counteract wrapping children in cotton-wool and passing on our fears to them, while encouraging them outside.

Bear Grylls is remarkable. At 23, he was one of the youngest people to climb Everest – 18 months after breaking his back. He served with 21 SAS before his TV career, where he tackles all kinds of stunts.

His enthusiasm is infectious and this animation will inspire youngsters to new challenges.