WILDLIFE explorers can hunt for creatures in rivers and enjoy story telling in a free family fun day to be held near to Barnard Castle.

The Heart of Teesdale Landscape Partnership is hosting the event in Deepdale Woods, Startforth, on Saturday, May 16.

It runs between 11am and 3pm and there will be a range of activities taking place.

There will be a demonstration of woodland cooking including nettle soup, popcorn and also bread baking for visitors.

The Love Food project will also provide food. Visitors will be able to enjoy a nature trail, willow weaving, river dipping and storytelling.

The event celebrates the Heart of Teesdale’s work over the last six months and there will be details on the group’s work.

This will include progress details on on-going projects and ways in which people can get involved in volunteering with the partnership.

Susie Lane, community officer for Heart of Teesdale, said: “Deepdale is a beautiful woodland to explore, with really interesting wildlife and flora.

“We are delighted to be able to host Woodfest and hope people will get stuck in with all the activities.”

The event is free and it is open to all ages. Sensible clothing and footwear is advised particularly for those wanting to take part in the water dipping.

The only parking and public toilets available to those taking part in the activities are at Barnard Castle.

For more information about this event contact Susie Lane, the partnership’s community officer, on 03000-264903 or via email at susanne.lane@durham.gov.uk