Forestry Commission - News - holiday fun for aberdeenshire children

Parents looking for ideas for children's summer holiday activities are in for a treat thanks to Forestry Commission Scotland.

Throughout July and early August, Wednesday afternoons will be the time to take children over five to some of Aberdeenshire's finest forests for a fun, friendly – and exhausting – activity session.

Let them Go Wild in the Woods and explore the forest.

Julia Truscott, for the Commission in Aberdeenshire, said:

"School holidays can be quite trying for a lot of parents - it's tricky finding enough free activities to keep youngsters occupied.

"We've organised a series of events on Wednesday afternoons, from 2.00 – 3.30pm, that will help children use up their excess holiday energy and offer mum or dad a mid-week oasis of calm.

"Why not bring your children along for some art and craft activities or a rip-roaring hunting expedition? You could use the opportunity to enjoy some quality 'me' time with a leisurely, relaxing walk in some of Aberdeenshire’s finest forests.

"Just make sure the children are wearing old clothes because they’re going to get dirty!"

The full programme of events includes –

Wed 9 July - Mini-beast Hunt - Back O’ Bennachie and Countesswells
Wed 16 July - Making things with wood - Cambus O’ May and Donview
Wed 23 July - Treasure Hunt - Countesswells, Dunnyduff and Delgaty
Wed 30 July - Shelter building - The Bin and Countesswells
Wed 30 July - Art Attack in the woods - Delgaty
Wed 6 August - Wooden games day - Tyrebagger
Wed 13 August - Mini-beast hunt - Dunnottar and Bin Forest

Some of the activities are in partnership with Aberdeenshire Council Ranger Service and places are limited so booking is essential. Phone 01466 794161 or email Aberdeenshire.fd@forestry.gsi.gov.uk to reserve your place.

The weekend of 18 – 21 July there will also be an opportunity to go on a "Round the World Safari" with Ramshackle Theatre Company when they visit several of Aberdeenshire's woods and forests. There will be three shows each day offering a unique forest experience. Check your local press for more details.

Make sure you’re aware of all the events and other news from Aberdeenshire’s forests by subscribing to the monthly newsletter. Contact Liz Wallace on liz.wallace@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

Notes to Editors
1) Forestry Commission Scotland serves as the Scottish Government's forestry department. For more information log on to www.forestry.gov.uk/aboutfcs

Media Enquiries
Paul Munro, Forestry Commission Scotland press office, 0131 314 6507