EXCITING activities have been planned for little outdoor adventurers this half term across parks in County Durham.

Blackhill and Consett Park will help young gardeners make their garden a welcoming place for animals with two special workshops.

Today, from 2pm to 4pm, visitors can knock together their own wooden bird house.

Later in the week, families are invited to build a hedgehog shelter, along with hedgehog themed craft activities and a trail around the park.

Sessions are being held on Thursday, from 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm.

Events are free booking is essential. Visit www.durham.gov.uk/BandCParkEvents

On Friday, from 2pm-4pm, hot soup and sandwiches are being offered along with crafts and outdoor activities, as part of the Well Bean day, organised by Moorside Children’s Centre, near Consett.

Keen young crafters can head to Wharton Park in Durham for a ceramic lesson with artist Kay Henderson. Using some imagination and a range of tools, attendees will be able to come up with creations to take home.

Workshops take place on Tuesday and Thursday, 11am to 3pm. Booking is essential, £10 per child, aged five and over. Call 03000-262-655.

Hardwick Park has some mysterious footprints to be followed to help youngsters find out more about animals and their homes there. Trail sheets cost £1 per sheet and will be available from the gift shop during opening hours.

There are also exciting woodland adventures and outdoor play activities, suitable for all ages, on Thursday from 11am-3pm. The cost is £3 per child.