VISITORS to Tiddesley Wood will see more than just bees buzzing and birds singing at the beginning of May.

The nature reserve, just outside Pershore, is holding its annual open day on Sunday, May 4 which will include more than 60 stalls of local artists, craftspeople and wildlife groups.

There will be homemade refreshments, plants and preserves on sale along with craftspeople demonstrating and selling work in wood, silver, textiles, glass and ceramics.

The day is run entirely by volunteers as a fundraiser for the woodland owners, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust.

Harry Green, chairman of the volunteer group organising the event, said: “We really enjoy our annual Open Day at Tiddesley Wood. With more than 1,000 people coming each year, it’s a real chance for people to inspired by this beautiful woodland and the wildlife that lives within it.

“With craftworkers, guided walks, family activities, live music and much more besides, it’s a really enjoyable day out for everyone."

People can also see traditional woodland crafts such as spinners and weavers, candle making, hurdle making and willow crafts.

Honey and beeswax products will be available and activities and information will be provided by Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, the Worcestershire Bat Group, Badger Society and Butterfly Conservation.

Free guided walks will be available and there will be plenty of activities for children to get involved with.

And the event is timed to coincide with carpets of woodland flowers in the woodland – bluebells, wood anemones, wild garlic and early purple orchids.

“Tiddesley is well-known in the area for its bluebells but, with an early and mild spring, we wait to see whether we’ve got the timing just right this year," added Mr Green. "We’re keeping our fingers crossed.”

The event takes place from 10am and 5pm and admission is £3 for adults and £1 for children.

For details, visit worcswildlifetrust.co.uk.