Random House Children's Publishers has announced the first ever collaboration by esteemed author Shirley Hughes and her daughter, the talented author-illustrator Clara Vulliamy. The duo have created a brand new series, Dixie O'Day.

Dixie and Percy's lives are full of fun and adventure, with thrilling car races, glamorous film stars, thieves, heroes and spooky old houses. Theirs is a world of fun, friendship, daring and villainy - one that children will respond instantly to.

The new series will launch in September 2013 with Dixie O'Day in the Fast Lane, with further adventures Dixie O'Day and The Great Diamond Robbery and Dixie O'Day and The Old Dark House to follow.

Shirley is creator of the classic Alfie series and of Dogger, voted the public's favourite Greenaway winner of all time. Clara's much-loved picture book series include The Bear with Sticky Paws, Lucky Wish Mouse and Martha and the Bunny Brothers.