CHILDREN took to the woods to connect with nature as they took part in a range of outdoor activities. 

The Forestry Commission's Get Out and Get Muddy event at Gartmorn Dam in Sauchie went down a treat on Monday, August 13, and Tuesday, August 14.

Aimed at youngsters up to the age of 12, it provided them with the opportunity to play outdoors and really use their imagination.

Jenny Ventham, community ranger with Forest Enterprise, which is part of the commission, said they all had a great time.

On the first day she went in with some suggestions as to what the 11 youngsters could get up to, namely den building.

But they had other ideas and Jenny was delighted to deliver a children-led session – making bow and arrows, a pirate ship and rope swing.

They also had the opportunity to construct muddy pictures which saw them decorate wallpaper with the likes of flowers, raspberries, leaves and other items that transferred colour.

The ranger, who works alongside schools, delivers continuous professional development for teachers and helps families discover nature, believes outdoor learning is hugely positive.

She told the Advertiser: "There's so many benefits for it. There's the health aspect of it, just being physical, just moving.

"You have also got the mental welfare as well, just having time to reconnect with nature and finding out about nature.

"I think it also gives them the opportunity to learn a bit of risk management as well – how am I going to keep myself safe."

The last of the muddy sessions, developed with the support of Dam Good Coffee Shop, at Gartmorn Forest will take place on Friday and is fully booked.

Many of the objects used during the programme are biodegradable and those that are not will be removed.

The mission of the commission is to protect and expand forest and woodlands, while increasing their value to society and the environment.

And ensuring these are enjoyed and left in good condition is something that Jenny is keen to promote.

"We do have rights to access our land which is absolutely brilliant," she said, "We also have the responsibility to use it safely and to make sure it's left in a safe way for other people to access it as well."