Friends of Ashlands, the PTA of Ashlands Primary School in Ilkley, has initiated this project to develop trails in and around the town. The first trail based around “The Three Bridges” proved really popular and now the second trail in the series has just been released.
The “Middleton Woods Spring Trail” is a circular walk of 1.5 miles where 15 decorated wooden eggs have been hidden for children to find. As with all trails in the series, there are facts about nature and the environment including the bluebells for which it is famous and information about some of the residents that live in the woods like grey squirrel, roe deer, wrens and jays. Amongst other activities children will be challenged to listen out for woodpeckers, look for minibeasts, find acorns and spot specific trees. They will also have to tackle a few questions that parents can help them to answer along the way.
Nicola Holmes, Chair of Friends of Ashlands said “We worked with Makers at the Mill in Farsley to design and make the giant wooden eggs. Children from each class at Ashlands then got involved with decorating them, each unique in its design featuring things relevant to Middleton Woods such as butterflies, mini beasts, birds, trees, leaves and squirrels. We hope the community enjoy spotting the eggs and learning along the way”.
Continuing as a partner in developing the trails is Nell Bank, the well-known Ilkley based outdoor centre. Dan Goodey, Head of Centre at Nell Bank said “We’ve had to think a bit differently about Easter egg hunts this year. This trail in the woods will provide a really exciting activity for families to enjoy safely. Middleton Woods is a magical place and is guaranteed to provide an adventure for children and grown-ups alike”.
The project complements the recent #walkshire campaign launched by Welcome to Yorkshire which aims to demonstrate the physical and mental health benefits of walking as both a recreational activity and whilst at work.
The trails are contact-free and will be distributed through the schools community as well as available to download here.
Make sure you share your trail walk photos using #discoverilkley and #ilkleytrails and tag us @friendsofashlands @nellbank @discoverilkley
To connect with Friends of Ashlands and Nell Bank visit our website or Facebook;
To check out the virtual craft fairs and other activities run by Makers at the Mill visit their website or Facebook.
