McBusted Announce Forestry Commission Concert (PLUS Your Chance To Win)

McBusted have announced a West Country date as part of Forest Live, organised by the Forestry Commission, where acts perform in spectacular woodland locations around the country. The band will be the sixth and final headline act to appear at Westonbirt Arboretum this summer. 

Have you got your tickets yet?

McBusted formed in 2013 when Tom Fletcher, Danny Jones, Dougie Poynter and Harry Judd from McFly joining forces with James Bourne and Matt Willis from Busted. Together Busted and McFly have sold over 15 million records worldwide and chalked up 14 number ones, 20 top 3 singles and 27 top ten singles. The popularity of the new supergroup was reflected in them playing the UK’s largest arena tour of 2014, to a staggering 350,000 people across 35 sold out shows culminating with headlining in London’s Hyde Park. Their unique Forest Live date at Westonbirt will see the band perform a powerhouse of hits such as: ‘Five Colours In Her Hair’, ‘Obviously’, ‘All About You’, ‘What I Go To School For’, ‘You Said No’ and ‘Crashed the Wedding’.

There's No Such Thing As A Gruffalo...

As many children returned to school on Monday but the Mini Mes had a teacher training day, we decided to make the most of the beautiful empty woodland and check out the Gruffalo Trail.

Salcey is our most local forest and it's a lovely one too with a cafe, play area and a treetop walk to enjoy. With our discovery pass providing free car parking we like to call by as often as possible for some outdoor family fun. So, we popped the poochie in the car, as dogs are more than welcome, and we set off with our wellies to see what characters we could spot from the well loved story.

'A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood...'

Woodland Walks - A Nature Craft

Once the bluebells have been and gone and the green grass is getting wild and long the woodland walk becomes a little eerie. The tree of treasures left by passers by is no longer a cute collection of toys but instead it becomes a spooky bundle of forgotten play-things. 

There is still something beautiful and enchanting about it though...

Outdoor Family Fun - 5 Cold Weather Activities

We all know how important it is to be active but when the sun hasn't got it's hat on and Jack Frost lurks around every corner we often need encouraging to go outside.

Hopefully these 5 ideas will help to persuade you and your family to pop on your boots and get moving outdoors, regardless of the weather!

Shadow Fun

With darker days until Spring it's the perfect opportunity to take advantage of all of the shadows on the ground. Use them as stepping stones, play shadow tag or see what interesting shapes you can make with your hands and body. 

Star Gazing

Enjoy a lovely evening walk and see if you can identify the sounds of the wildlife before laying on the ground and staring up into the nights sky. There are so many constellations to look out for but you can also look for planes, bats and owls in the process. 

For a warmer alternative take a tent.

Puddle Jumping

Your little Peppa Pig fans no doubt like to get messy so put on some sensible footwear (I love my new women's Puma trainers), some waterproofs and get splashing. You can stand nearby for some great action shots or join in too. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate, plenty of cream and marshmallows with a great family movie.

Winter Games

With the Olympics in progress it's the ideal time for recreating some of the activities safely at home in the garden. Use cardboard boxes as bobsleighs and your imaginations for some competitive play. You could always do some baking and make some cookie medals to reward yourselves after!

Woodland Creations

With high winds there are many broken trees and plenty of branches around. Go on a scavenger hunt to collect some and then use your materials to make your own magical broomsticks and stick characters. Cuddle up with Room on the Broom and Stick Man for a read too or get back straight back out there for some kite flying action!

Which winter activities do you enjoy as a family?

Forest Links to Love Over the Centuries

Our woods and forests have long been steeped in vibrant folklore which has entwined romance and trees for centuries.

With the unmistakeable whiff of love in the woodland air, here’s Forestry Commission England’s guide to the myths, fairy tales and quirks that make woods and forests some of the most romantic places on earth.

Traditional tokens of love…

In many traditions, declarations of love were expressed through the exchange of love tokens. One example of this can be found in Wales, where it became popular to make a specially carved ‘love spoon’ for your beloved (although acceptance of a spoon did not necessarily lead to marriage).

Due to its dense straight grain and pale colour (free of blemishes), sycamore was the most commonly used wood for creating these spoons.

Acorn-ucopia of love

If you’d like to know if your relationship will stand the test of time, find two acorns (one for you and one for your partner), then drop your acorns into a bucket of water at the same time. If the acorns float towards each other, then your romance will go from strength to strength.

If they don’t, try again…

The Big Belly Oak in the Forestry Commission’s historic Savernake Forest, Wiltshire, is around 1,100 years old. It took root at around the time William the Conqueror defeated King Harold in 1066 and is known as the great-grandfather of Savernake.

Sowing the seeds of love

The winged seeds of the ash have long been used by people to find out what their future love life has in store. If winged seeds did not appear on the branches of an ash tree, the owner of the tree was thought to be unlucky in love. It was also believed that if a lady placed an ash leaf in her left shoe, she would be fortunate enough to meet her future spouse within minutes. 

Alternatively, you could find your intended love by repeating the following verse:

‘Even-ash, even-ash, I pluck thee,

This night my own true love to see,

Neither in his bed nor in the bare,

But in the clothes he does every day wear.’

Core, I really fancy you!

It is said that if a person wants to entice another, they should sleep with an apple under their arm. If they can persuade the person to eat the apple the following day, the person will fall in love with them immediately.

If the sweaty apple approach doesn’t work, try buying them a cider or a refreshing apple juice instead. Apples are aphrodisiacs!

Will you snare a millionaire?

Ever wondered what job your future partner will be employed in? If so, the cherry tree can help. After eating cherries, count out your cherry stones while reciting the following poem (one stone per word - if you have more than eight stones, start the poem again):

‘Tinker, tailor, soldier, sailor, rich man, poor man, beggar man, thief’

The profession spoken on your last cherry stone will be your future spouse’s calling.

The Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum at Westonbirt, Gloucestershire, has a stunning cherry collection that is perfect for spring walks.

The secret of a fruitful marriage

The hazelnut is a symbol of fertility. A bag of nuts bestowed upon a bride will ensure a fruitful marriage. Hazelnuts can also be used for love spells. Assign the name of your passion to a nut and throw it in the fire whilst saying:

“A hazelnut I throw in the flame,

to this nut I give my sweetheart’s name,

If blazes the nut, so may thy passion grow,

For twas my nut that did so brightly glow.”

Eternal beauty elixir!

Hawthorn was thought to increase fertility and was often incorporated into weddings, especially those performed in the spring. It is also said that if a young woman wishes to remain beautiful forever, she should bathe in the dew of the hawthorn tree at dawn on Beltane (the first day of May) while chanting this rhyme:

“The fair maid, who on the first of May,

Goes to the fields at the break of day,

And bathes in the dew from the hawthorn tree,

Will ever strong and handsome be.”

Everybody hurts, sometimes

Unlike other trees with romantic links, the willow tree has a dark side! For although many cultures include the willow in their love stories, its weeping branches have often led it to be associated with the sadness that can come with love - from the broken heart of unrequited love to the loss of a loved one.

100% natural, calorie-free heartbreak remedy

Poplar buds can be carried in tiny red bags to help mend a broken heart. These buds should be kept as close to the heart as possible. They can also be placed under a pillow and slept on to the same effect.

Carved with love

Couples looking to immortalise their love have often carved their initials and a heart on the bark of a tree, thus creating an arborglyph. Historically, arborglyphs were considered to be a romantic form of artistic expression that would last many years.

Chantel Summerfield, an expert on arborglyphs, has studied such carvings by American WW1 soldiers in England and is currently investigating a site at Lyndhurst in the New Forest. Look out for the chance to buy your own personalised arborglyph from www.theforestryshop.com. 

What will you be doing for Valentine's Day?

For ideas of places to visit, go to www.forestry.gov.uk/visit

*Guest Post*

If You Go Down To The Woods Today...

After school on Tuesday we decided to go for a walk around a nearby wood; Badby. 

We popped on our wellies, jumped in the car and set off.

The air was cool and the leaves crackled beneath our boots as we clambered over fallen trees and around flooded streams. It was incredibly wet and muddy!

We walked for 70 minutes in total. It really left us feeling refreshed and we had a great time playing eye spy, squelching through puddles and running with the dog.

It was also great to see that the wands we had created several months ago and left in a spot where other toys had been placed for fairies were still there! 

What outdoor fun have you enjoyed this week?

British Forest Myths and Fairy Tales

Forests have long been held in the national psyche as mystical places of misadventure. Children’s fables and songs back this up, think ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ or ‘The Teddy Bears’ Picnic’. Center Parcs, who have mastered the forest holiday, think these tales are great and thoroughly love hearing new versions. They have compiled a list of four of their favourite forest fairy tales and deciphered what message they deliver about the forest. They are:

Jack And The Beanstalk – Jack and the Beanstalk is a fable that is basically about the opportunities people must take for self-improvement. Jack and his mother live an impoverished life, surviving on the produce of one dairy cow. The cow stops producing and so Jack is sent to sell it at market. He meets a mysterious man in the woods on the way who trades him three magic beans. These eventually become the giant beanstalk and create his path to unthinkable riches.

What does this say about the forest? The forest serves as a mystical place of opportunity where other worldly goings-on occur. It’s no coincidence that Jack receives the beans in the forest. The story portrays the forest as a valuable and abundant resource where great riches can be found.

The Teddy Bear’s Picnic – So this may strictly not be a fairy tale but it’s definitely a song that is sung to young children regularly. The story starts on a cautionary note warning children to “beware of a big surprise” on entering the woods. It turns out that really the only thing to be cautious of is the teddy bears having a picnic.

What does this say about the forest? The message of this rhyme seems to be double-edged. On the surface this tale seems to be quite terrifying and certainly was the cause of anxiety for me as a youth. The image of bears romping round the forest picnicking on anything that stood in their way was enough to deter shy little me. On the other hand you realise these are actually just teddy bears, the plaything of young children. An image of a young girl hosting a tea party for all her dolls springs to mind and instantly the intimidating image disappears. This song then seems to warn young children of the dangers of playing in the forest but only to a certain extent. On growing older the forest is no longer to be feared but actually enjoyed as an area of play.

Goldilocks And The Three Bears – This is another cautionary tale for young children. It warns them not to play in the woods alone. Goldilocks is often portrayed as being very headstrong, whose only saving grace is her beautiful mane of hair. Impatient with her mother cooking dinner she dashes off alone in the forest. She breaks into the bears’ house and uses or breaks a lot of their possessions. When confronted by the bears she is terrified and runs off home, learning to never play in the woods again.

What does this say about the forest? The message here is quite an obvious one and teaches children not to play in the woods alone. They can be a dangerous place, as many places are for young children. It’s in the description of the bears that we see the tale’s true feelings towards the forest. The bears are often portrayed as homely and loving. Perhaps then the message we can learn from this tale is that in the forest there are many different animals living in harmony. As a person, entering the woods and disturbing their day-to-day life can land you in trouble. Treat the forest with respect.

Robin Hood – The renowned outlaw is as famed for his charitable ways as he is for residing in Sherwood Forest. His acts of gallantry, fighting against the dreaded Sheriff of Nottingham often start from his forest hideout. Robin’s merry men also live with him in the forest.

What does this say about the forest? Robin Hood has its roots in the medieval period where England was often lead by ruthless Kings or Queens with little regard to the common man. The people needed to band together and create their own heroes away from the prying eyes of civil society. The forest works well for this, as the people that work this land every day will know it better than any King or Queen could dream of. The forest then in this tail acts as a blanket masking all the deeds of the common man, united under their self-appointed hero Robin. It also acts as a safe place where the ordinary person can live a life uninterrupted or pestered by the landed gentry. The forest becomes an open society where each man has worth and is respected for his actions and not for his lineage.

-----

These tales tell us a lot about our own attitude towards the forest. On first glance you may think that the over-arching message is to avoid the forest. But I don’t think that’s quite right. I think there’s more to it. I think the forest is portrayed as a risky place, yes, but a place of opportunity. It’s a place where people can reconnect with nature and most importantly enjoy themselves. 

What does the forest mean to you? 

Were you scared of it as a child?

*PR Collaboration*

Winter Walks and Wellies - Outdoor Activities for Kids

Winter is well underway and unfortunately that means the bikinis and deck chairs are back in storage for a few months, unless you want frostbite, BUT it does see the return of wonderful wintry walks. 

Kicking about in leaves, splashing in puddles and having fun with ice and snow is what this time of year is all about - I love it!

Hit the slopes

Apart from sledding there are lots of alternative ways to enjoy the snow. You can begin skiing from around 3 years of age and you don't have to be much older to give snowboarding a go. Tubing (riding inflatable rings) is great fun too and can be enjoyed by young and old - we will be visiting our local Snozone for some lessons before Christmas as a family.

Snow play

Building snowmen and throwing snowballs are pretty standard activities in the cold so try something a little different this year. Creating ice decorations, making igloos, forming ice marbles and painting the snow in colour are just a few ideas.

Animal tracking

This is something that can be done all year round but animal tracks are a lot easier to spot when there is mud and frost on the ground. Educate little ones by getting them to identify which creature they came from and you can always look to the sky for some bird watching now the robins will be out in full force.

Geocaching

Again this is an activity you can take part in at any time but when it's cold and the little ones may not want to venture outside this will definitely help get them moving! It's similar to a treasure hunt on a much larger scale - don't forget your camera for some picturesque photo opportunities while you walk.

Scavenger hunts

Pop on your coat, gloves and wellies, make a list of seasonal seeds and plants and collect them while exploring your local forests. You can then take them home to make leaf prints and crowns and even some cute little hedgehogs with pine cones!

Elf and fairy houses

You can transform your existing plant pots into homes for elves and fairies with just a few pebbles and lollipop sticks or you can make the most of the fallen twigs and greenery by designing caves for your imaginary friends. A lovely creative play idea.

 Whatever you are planning to do until Spring arrives, having reliable footwear is essential. Jelly Egg have a lovely selection of wellies and boots in particular that are perfect for the colder weather - to keep little and big feet dry!

What outdoor activities do you enjoy?

*Sponsored post*

Pine Cone Hedgehogs

Don't let the cooler weather put you off exploring the great outdoors, there is plenty to see and do during Autumn and some spectacular photography opportunities with the beautiful colours of the season.

We have had great fun collecting conkers and acorns and we decided to use the pine cones we discovered to create some cute little hedgehogs!

Equipment

Pine cones

Air drying clay

Fork

Googly eyes

Method

• Firstly clean your pine cones to ensure there are no little hidden bugs inside.
• Using the clay roll out a ball for a head, 4 balls for feet, 2 balls for ears and 1 ball for a nose.
• Shape the clay ball for the head into a cone, attach to the flat end of the pine cone and spread out the edges to ensure it is connected properly.
• Add the ears and use the fork to make a small indentation in each.
• Add the nose to the tip of the head.
• Press the fork down into each of the feet and then attach to the pine cone firmly.
• Use the fork to make a mouth, attach the eyes and leave so the clay can dry.
• Play!

Collect some Autumn items of your own and get creative!

You can find out more information on your local Forestry Commission woods here: 

http://www.forestry.gov.uk/autumn

7 Low Cost Activities for Summer Family Fun

A few weeks in to the summer holidays and no doubt our pockets are a little lighter as the pennies are being spent to entertain the little people in our lives! But panic not, as there are so many free (or virtually) activities that will keep you busy without breaking the bank - not every day has to be expensive!

Forests

Den building, bug hunting and tree climbing are just a few things you can do at your local forest. With the option to stay overnight with camping and forest breaks now available, you can extend your day out even further.

Check out the Forestry Commission website for more details - with prices starting at £7.70 per night you can book a mini adventure! (There is also the chance to win a break with the Guardian).

Libraries

Over the past few years we have joined in with the summer reading challenges where you gain stickers, a certificate and medal for your achievements (reading 6 books over the 6 weeks). The scheme is running again this year so check out some books and gain your rewards when you return them. It's a super way to encourage reading too!

Cinemas

The usual price of a ticket, food and drink may cost a small fortune but this is a great time to take advantage of the early bird morning and weekend deals. With tickets from just £1 you have a bargain trip out and if you take some snacks in too it kills a few hours without denting your purse.

Water parks

You may have been to your local park a million times by now so try to venture a little further afield and look for new places to visit, especially ones with water play. Pack a picnic and towels and make the most of the sunshine in your swimwear, splashing about as the water jets cool you down. 

Free swimming

Our local gym has several open days over the summer offering free entertainment and sports to children and this even includes free swimming. Check your local one for more details and to book your places today. 

We have already enjoyed inflatable play at ours this summer!

Churches

Many churches offer some great free craft groups which allow your little ones to get creative and it saves your carpet from glitter and sequins galore in the process! Some also have the option to leave your children for a few mornings giving you the perfect opportunity to take a well deserved sit down.

Geocaching

This is treasure hunting on a larger scale where you seek out containers or 'caches' using GPS. It's a great way to explore your local area and to get active. We have downloaded an app to find ones nearby but you can have a look on the geocaching website for more details too.

What would you recommend as a cheap or free day out?

Outdoor fun... win a Forestry Commission Discovery Pass

My chest infection has unfortunately returned and resulted in me spending very little time outdoors this week although I've tried to ensure the Mini Mes have been outside for fresh air and fun as much as possible in the gardens.

 

They have been running about with the dog, using chalk to doodle on the paths and the water guns to squirt the fences... even the neighbours washing (oops) in the process!

 

 

Once I return to full health I'm very much looking forward to going further afield to the local forests to explore, learn and play in the beautiful, natural surroundings. Being an Official Forest Blogger I received an annual Discovery Pass providing access to Fineshade and Salcey Forest earlier this year;  a great way to get all the family outdoors together, come rain or shine.

 

Spending more time outside is not only one of our resolutions but it is a great way to teach the importance of looking after the environment to children and exercising too. We love forests as a family and we have the opportunity to provide a Discovery Pass to one of you to enjoy the same great times in a local forest of your choice.

 

*** WIN ***

 

For your chance to win a Discovery Pass to a forest of your choice you can enter via the Rafflecopter entry form below.

The giveaway closes on 13th April 2013.

Good luck!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

 

• The prize is for one Discovery Pass   
• A Discovery Pass is valid for a specific location
• The pass is valid for 12 months and gives free parking for one car at the designated location.
• There are additional benefits to the pass which include a seasonal e-newsletter, with forest news and events and generous discount vouchers for shops and activities on and off site.

 

 

For further information please visit:  http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pass