Here at Coombes it's all fingers to the grindstone as we prepare for some exciting events planned over the summer. Over the May half term we have our magical woodland activity trail for families, which enables them to explore this great place and get creative using the natural materials the woodland provides.
The countdown to our open day is well and truly underway as we go against the clock making sure everything is prepared for what is sure to be a great family day out . At this free event on June 2nd, we have guided walks, pond dipping, bug hunting, face painting, geo caching, dry stone walling, arts and crafts plus local stands from Leek. There's to be something to keep those of all ages and all interests entertained whilst enjoying this wonderful location, on a glorious summers day (fingers crossed!).
The open day is delivered through our Stepping Stones to Nature (SS2N) partnership with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, Staffs Moorlands District Council and Peak District National Park Authority.
Another date for your diary, Coombes Valley will be proud to present its very first BioBlitz on the 16th June. What's a BioBlitz I hear you all say? A chance to identify as many species (from lichens to amphibians, and from the birds to the trees in which they perch) as possible over a 24 hour period. You don't need to be an expert (we'll have plenty of those on site to help) so turn up any time of day (between 6am and 11pm that is), and there is sure to be something going on for you to get involved in, including moth ID, bat walks and pond dipping!
So we hope to see you all at our marvellous events - go forth and spread the word, the more people the merrier!
Anthony Hammond at last years' Open Day creating our willow Badger sculpture. Anthony again will be at this years' Open Day where we expect it to be bigger and better than ever!