FAMILIES and youngsters in the Bowland area can learn about local birds and wildlife at an activity weekend in Slaidburn, Hodder Valley, on June 14 and 15.

Bowland Festival, organised by the Birds of Bowland project, will take place at Slaidburn Village Hall and on the village green.

It is aimed at families and children aged five to 11, and will include wildlife adventure walks, craft and activities, competitions and quizzes -- all with an environmental theme.

Maps featuring a self-guided trail around the Bowland area will be available, pointing the way to manned checkpoints, where people can look for moorland birds, such as hen harriers and ring ouzels.

Bowland community education officer Lucy Barron said: "The Forest of Bowland plays a vital role for many birds.

"In spring, the local farmland attracts thousands of waders, such as lapwings and curlews.

"The moorland is home to the impressive hen harrier and Bowland's waterways support a wide range of species, including kingfishers and dippers.

The Birds of Bowland project is run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, United Utilities and Ribble Valley Council.

The free event will run from 10am to 4pm and everyone is welcome.