Woodland Adventures

9.42.58pm GMT Mon 7th Nov 2005

Youngsters and parents had the chance to test out their survival skills at the recent half-term Woodland Adventure days organised by Milton Keynes Council at the Hanson Environmental Study Centre, Great Linford.

Dragged away from the TV and their computer games for the day, the youngsters got down to earth in the 100-acre reserve and learned how to build a shelter, make a fire and forage for food. Council Officer Diane Evans, who organised the event said: "Everyone seemed to have a great time. It's debatable who enjoyed it most - parents or children!"

Liberal Democrat Councillor Douglas McCall, cabinet member for the environment added: "The Hanson Centre is a fantastic site. It offers young people the chance to experience nature close at hand and learn about the importance of looking after our environment."

The Hanson Environmental Centre is run by Milton Keynes Council as a combined nature reserve and schools field study centre. The unique site contains meadows, woodlands, reed beds, ponds and a large lake and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, particularly birds. Over two hundred bird species have been recorded. The site also has a heronry, breeding barn owls and boasts otters amongst its visitors.

The site was formerly a gravel pit that provided building material for the construction of the M1 motorway and the development of Milton Keynes.