A knitted literary adventure in store at nature reserve through January

From tomorrow, thanks to the creativity of visitors, volunteers and staff, people visiting RSPB Saltholme will be able to spot hidden literary inspired knits as they explore the reserve.

Running until Wednesday, January 31, the ‘Yarn Bombing’ event will carry a literary theme with favourite childhood stories including Wind in the Willows, The Gruffalo, Peter Rabbit and more being given the woolly treatment.

To celebrate the return of the fun-filled event, the nature reserve is offering free entry (normally £5 per car) to visitors between Saturday and January 31.

The event follows on from an appeal for North East knitters to lend their support through their knitting skills.

The public responded in droves with a vast array of knitted creations being donated.

David Braithwaite, RSPB Saltholme site manager, said: “Our knitters have, once again, done an absolutely fantastic job in creating characters from a whole range of children’s stories.

“The story scenes promise to be fantastic and I can’t wait to see them hidden around our reserve for our visitors to find.”

As well as the return of all things knitted, the reserve will welcome back storyteller Chris Connaughton who will be keeping visitors entertained over two weekends in January with special story weekends.

The Yarn Bombing Storytelling Weekends will take place on January 13 and 14 and again on January 20 and 21, with sessions from 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Sessions cost £4 per person, (£3 for RSPB members) and booking is essential.

Sessions are bookable by calling 01642 546625.

Throughout the Yarn Bombing event, entrance to RSPB Saltholme, usually £5 per car, will be free, giving people the opportunity to explore the woolly exhibition and get closer to nature this New Year.

Dave added: “We understand that the festive period can be an expensive time which is why we want to make it easier for people to get out and about to explore and of course enjoy nature this January.

“As such, we will be waiving the entrance fee for visitors between Saturday 6 – Wednesday 31 January 2018. We hope to see many new visitors to our wonderful reserve in the New Year.”

Whatever the weather – rain or shine – visitors can take part in a range of crafts, explore the reserves nature trails, take in the views and enjoy the Visitor Centre, cafe and shop.

RSPB Saltholme is open 9.30am – 4pm every day (except Christmas Day). Find out more about the reserve on Facebook and Twitter.