Three days of 'exploration, education and engagement with the natural world' will take place in Sidmouth in June.

The Sidmouth Biodiversity Festival will take place over the weekend of Friday, June 7 to Sunday 9.

It was held for the first time last year, organised by the Sid Valley Biodiversity Group (SVBG) with funding from Sidmouth Town Council.

Sheila Meades from the SVBG said: “We’re thrilled to announce the return of the Sidmouth Biodiversity Festival following the popularity of last year’s events. One of the main aims of our group is to help people understand and celebrate the rich diversity of wildlife we enjoy in the Sid Valley. The festival gives us the opportunity to offer events over three days where people can explore and enjoy local nature.”

Highlights of the festival include:

Friday 7 June - The festival begins with two engaging speakers at Kennaway House exploring river-related themes, followed by an afternoon of activities by the River Sid in The Byes. In the evening there will be a bat detection walk by the river, led by local expert Sarah Butcher.

Saturday 8 June - Celebrating World Ocean Day, the festival features biologist turned filmmaker and author Tom Mustill, who will share insights from his acclaimed book, How to Speak Whale. Families can also enjoy a rockpooling adventure at Chit Rocks, discovering the wonders of marine life.

Sunday 9 June - The festival concludes with a focus on the Sidmouth Food Forest in Sidford, offering tours and creative sessions for all. Expert guides will also lead two wildlife walks through the town and The Byes, helping you discover more about what is familiar and learn things about nature that may be new to you.

In addition to these events, there will be a chance to view and discuss proposals for improving the River Sid and its catchment. The River Sid Catchment Group will put its plans on display in the Methodist Church foyer from Thursday, June 6 until Saturday, June 8. A public discussion will take place at Kennaway House in the evening of Friday 7 June.

The full festival programme will be launched in early May. In the meantime, updates will be posted on the Sid Valley Biodiversity Group’s website www.sidvalleybiodiversity.org. Anyone interested can also sign up for the SVBG's regular newsletter offering festival updates, biodiversity news, volunteering opportunities and events.