ASTERIX and Obelix's next adventure is to be set in the Highlands.

The comic strip follows a ancient French village whose inhabitants resist Roman occupation by drinking a magic potion that gives them superhuman strength.

But the new storyline – titled Asterix and The Picts – will see the dynamic duo and their trusty hound Dogmatix visit Scottish tribes, who are embroiled in their own attempt at preventing an invasion.

French publisher Albert Rene said Scotland was chosen as it is "a land rich in tradition, whose people are proud and attached to their customs, paving the way for a delightful story".

Comic bosses revealed the title and release date of the Scots-themed tale at an event in Bologna in Italy. Preliminary sketches of the book – which will be the 35th annual featuring the pair – appear to show Obelix carrying a kilted Highland chieftan.

It will be released in October.

Other annuals have seen Asterix, Obelix and Dogmatix visit Spain, Egypt and Switzerland.