Two "Welly Walks" aimed at encouraging children to explore the outdoors in all weathers and learn about their surrounding nature and wildlife have been organised by the Farmers' Union of Wales Anglesey county branch and the island's Welsh language promotional organisation Menter Iaith Môn.
The first walk will take place at the Dingle, Nant Y Pandy Nature Reserve, on Saturday April 27 at 10am. Anglesey County Council has agreed to provide free car parking in the Dingle Car Park from 9.30 until 11.30 that day.
The second walk takes place on May 29 at 1.30pm at the outstanding location of Llanddwyn Island where film actress Demi Moore shot scenes for the film “Halflight”.
FUW's Anglesey county executive officer Heidi Williams said:
“It is our intention to encourage the children of the community out into the open air whilst learning about their surroundings.
"As a child I always remember that my siblings and I were hardly ever in the house. We were out and about walking the fields, sitting under trees, picking flowers, bird spotting and collecting kindle. We have so many happy childhood memories.”
Children taking part in the Welly Walks must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and will be guided by the warden in each area - Gareth Evans for Llangefni and Graham Williams in Llanddwyn. Children will be taught the different Welsh names for the various trees, birds and plants.
The events have received excellent support from different agencies and the FUW and Menter Iaith Môn are particularly grateful to the Forestry Commission for agreeing free entry to all adults and children to Llanddwyn Island for which there is normally a £30 fee.
Forestry Commission forest education officer Catrin Owen said:
“Woodlands are an outstanding learning resource and give children the opportunity to be close to nature in a technology free zone.
“There are many associated physical and mental benefits to being active in an outdoor environment and using woodlands for learning can contribute to children’s' health and wellbeing.”
Both Welly Walks will finish with refreshments provided free of charge by the FUW.