23 JANUARY 2007

NEWS RELEASE No: 9211

NATIONAL NEST BOX WEEK AT BEDGEBURY As part of the British Trust for Ornithology’s National Nest Box Week, Bedgebury’s education team is running three sessions to connect young people with birds at Bedgebury in Kent. Children will have the chance to experience bird watching and build their own nesting box. They will also find out what to feed the birds, what sort of feeder to use and what binoculars are best. On Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th February there are sessions from 10am to 12 noon for children aged 5 to 7 years and on Friday 16th a session from 10am – 12 noon for 8 to 13 year olds. “Building on the success of last year’s event, our aim is to introduce children to a wide range of bird-related topics.” Says Bedgebury’s Education Officer David Holloway. “Last year we were lucky enough to spot a Red Kite, and the Hawfinch is a regular visitor to the National Pinetum at this time of year. Bird watching is an interest that can last a lifetime.” Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. The event costs £5 per young person, with one accompanying adult free. Other Winter Events at Bedgebury On Sunday 11th February, National Pinetum Curator Chris Reynolds will be conducting a guided tour to discover the Wonders of Bedgebury from 1.30 to 3.30pm (£6). On Saturday 24 February Geoff Orton will lead Bird Walks for Beginners, to search out some of the unusual birds who overwinter at Bedgebury. 1.30pm - 4.00pm. £8 for adults (£7 for Friends Gold Card holders). £6 for children. As numbers are limited, booking is essential for all events; either through the Bedgebury Visitor Information Office or by telephone - 01580 879820. Normal £5 car-parking charges apply. Participants should wear clothing & footwear suitable for a winter walk. www.forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury Note to editors Open 365 days a year, Bedgebury is the perfect place for walking, cycling, riding and adventure play in a spectacular world of trees. The National Pinetum is a world-class collection of dramatic conifers and provides a beautiful setting for a country walk in all seasons. The two thousand-acre Bedgebury Forest offers miles of family cycling, mountain-biking, riding, walking and adventure play for all ages and abilities. The new Visitor Centre has cycle hire, refreshments, showers and an education/community room. As a location for healthy outdoor activity in a beautiful setting, Bedgebury is in a class of its own. Media Contact: Peter d’Aguilar - 01580 211044 x 233. peter.d’aguilar@forestry.gsi.gov.uk