ON Saturday, October 16, I assisted Alastair Nicholson, of Education and Lifelong Learning, in an Active learning session at Blackburn Museum.

The day involved encouraging young people, and adults if they wished, to draw beetles and butterflies and ask questions about the insects.

I was astounded by the response. Many adults brought their children along but also groups of young people drifted in, probably out of curiosity.

They stayed, in some cases for over an hour, looking, drawing and asking questions.

Being able to handle the bugs, albeit in large and small transparent boxes, and noticing the fine detail of these creatures seemed to awaken an interest in many. People at times seemed to be astonished at what butterflies and beetles could do.

I know that it is a popular criticism of young people that they hang around shopping centres causing mischief but, after this session, I do believe that given the opportunity they would channel their boundless energy into interesting hands-on learning exercises.

In conclusion I would particularly like to thank the four young Asian boys for their active enthusiasm and asking such penetrating questions. Also to Blackburn Museum and Alastair Nicholson for allowing me to be able to make youngsters more aware of the beauty and mystery of the butterfly world.

P C GOLDEN (Mr), Hampden Fold, Grimshaw Street, Darwen.