A WILDPLAY Explorers' Day will kick off the "Learning on the Downs" initiative, near Bromyard town.

The launch will take place on Friday, October 30, from 10am to noon, and one of the highlights for youngsters will be a Gruffalo Trail.

WildPlay spokesman, Hayley Herridge said: "An exciting initiative is underway to encourage young people living in and around Bromyard to get out on the Downs, interacting with, and learning from, the natural world. The initiative is part of the Heritage Lottery Funded Bromyard Downs Project, a three year project led by Bromyard Downs Common Association and Herefordshire Wildlife Trust.

"A new education pack filled with outdoor activities has been created. A dedicated space at Brockhampton Academy has been filled with equipment needed for the activities, including bug hunting, nature trails and pond dipping kits." Brockhampton Academy, St Peter’s School, Queen Elizabeth College, the Hope Centre and Bromyard Girl Guiding are all involved with the initiative and it is hoped that more groups will get involved over the next two years.

Hayley added: "The Downs is a great place for children and young people to play and learn. The education pack has been designed to be easy to use to allow teachers to pick up activities and go out with confidence."

If any schools or groups working with children from Early Years to Key Stage 4 are interested in getting involved in the initiative or would like to access the resource box they should contact Hannah Welsh at h.welsh@herefordshirewt.co.uk / 07733 404938.

Further information at www.bromyarddowns.co.uk