Get out and about this winter

Published by webmaster for Ellesmere Port & Neston Borough Council in Communities

If you go down to the woods today… you may well have a big surprise. Winter may not seem the obvious time of year to be spending time outside, but the borough’s rangers say the season has lots to offer.

Apart from the benefits of exercise and a sense of well-being, Ranger Andy James says it’s also a great time to learn about the natural environment.

“Because all the leaves and undergrowth have died back it’s the best time of year to enjoy the shape of the land, to see berries and spot foxes and colourful birds such as woodpeckers, robins and jays.

“It’s actually much easier to identify trees when they’ve lost their leaves, by their shape and the bark and buds,” he added.

The Rangers have lined up three events in December to encourage people to explore the borough’s green spaces.
 
On Sunday 3 December Winter Wonderland allows you to take a closer look at some of the more unusual features at Rivacre Valley in Ellesmere Port, stopping for lunch at a local garden centre.
 
Winter Amble on Saturday 9 December is a guided walk through Stanney Woods, Ellesmere Port, taking in the sights of winter and finishing with hot soup and rolls.
 
And on Sunday 10 December enjoy some Festive Fun at Rivacre Valley, following Santa’s trail through the woods then making a decoration to take home.

Booking for all three events is essential. Contact the rangers on 0151 357 1991.

For ideas on where to walk in the borough, go to
www.epnbc.gov.uk/about/

Ends

Press release issued: November 17 2006