There were talks on trees, bats, and butterflies at a community event focusing on outdoor learning and environmental education.

It was hosted by Sherwood Forest Trust, which works with public on conservation projects and educational initiatives, with Forest Education Network East Midlands and Feel Good Gardens, Clipstone.

Educators, adults, and children also got involved in other activities.

Community tree nursery officer Izzy Pass gave a talk focused on growing trees from seeds and berries. She shared tips on caring for young trees, emphasising the importance of preserving native species to support local biodiversity.

This was followed by tree-coin decorating, where visitors could paint their favourite bugs and butterflies on wooden discs.

Katie Doull, community volunteer co-ordinator, shared an insight into UK bats, their lifecycle, and the methods used to identify and record them.

Attendees got hands-on experience with bat detectors, explored creative ways to incorporate bat-themed activities into Forest School programmes, and had a chance to make bats from pinecones in the seedbank polytunnel.

Following a break with drinks and bat cupcakes, community woodland creation officer Lynn Preece led a session on UK butterflies, when and where to spot them, and how to participate in the Big Butterfly Count.

Visitors also had a go at creating Hapa Zome butterfly art with natural pigments from plants, hammering plants on to textile to release their natural dyes.

Lynn said: “We all know that connecting with nature is good for us and the more that people feel a close connection, the more we will want to protect our local wildlife.

“This is especially true for children and young people who are our future. Hopefully today we have played a part in helping to inspiring future generations to spend more time outdoors and get hands on with conservation work.”