Children enjoy spreading wings to make bird boxes

The craft workshops at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, near Ripon, kicked off yesterday and parents and children have been demonstrating their creative flair in an attempt to get closer to nature.

Staff at the World Heritage Site have been showing visitors how to construct the perfect bird box, as well as offering their expertise about the types of birds to look out for in gardens.

Visitor experience and learning officer, Cassandra White, said: “We’re really keen to get everyone a bit closer to the nature on their doorstep, and building a bird box is the perfect way to encourage new wildlife into your garden as we head towards spring. And it’s definitely proved popular with our visitors of all ages.”

The workshops, which continue today, are part of a series of half-term events at the abbey. A two-mile ‘Wildlife Wander’ will take place on Saturday, which will offer the chance to discover more about the variety of wildlife that roams the 800-acre estate.

Children have also been taking part in a heraldic trail around the abbey, mill and water garden throughout the week.