Calling all young nature enthusiasts! Get ready for adventures at the upcoming Sidmouth Biodiversity Festival which takes place in and around the town from Monday, June 5 to Sunday 11. Organised by the Sid Valley Biodiversity Group, there are over thirty free events across the week for all ages. Full details, and booking where required, can be found on the group’s website www.sidvalleybiodiversity.org and look out for the colourful posters around town.

One of the highlights of the festival is the array of free children's activities, mostly taking place on Saturday, June 10, designed to spark curiosity and nurture a love for the natural world. From interactive activities to engaging workshops, there's something for every young explorer to enjoy.

The fun starts early at 8am on Saturday, June 10 with a bird walk for novices of all ages, encouraging participants to tune in to the different bird songs.

A little later, local community group, Friends of the Byes, are running two events, one exploring the diverse species that call this beautiful area home; the other a guided tour of the amphibian corner in the community orchard. In the afternoon you can return to the community orchard for a bug safari. The Byes will also be the venue for an outdoor performance of local nature-based storytelling.

The Cellar Bar at Kennaway House is open all day for a free of charge rolling programme of family-friendly activities. Take part in Operation Earth, a fun family show exploring the amazing stories and science of the environment. Follow this by participating in some hands-on biodiversity-linked activities and a separate virtual reality show exploring the links between human activity and climate change.

Creative minds will have the chance to shine with two art and mark-making sessions inspired by local nature. They will be run by Sidmouth Community Coastal Hub and will contribute to the Riverside Walkway Revitalised project by the Ham.

So, mark your calendars for 5 to 11 June and join us in celebrating the wonders of the natural world and inspire the next generation of wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.

All events are free though donations to support the group’s activities are welcome. Booking is required for some events due to limited space. For full details of all the events and to book where required, visit our website. www.SidValleyBiodiversity.org