ARTISTS, forest rangers and scientists are teaming up for a spring community nature workshop along the Tavistock Viaduct walk this Saturday, May 5. The Discover the Undergrowth event is a unique way of recording the area — a designated local nature reserve — through the different seasons. The workshop is open to all, is free of charge, and experts will be on hand to help you draw, explain the importance of a local nature reserve and identify different species. All the drawings will be published in a community nature diary, recording the area throughout the seasons, and helping to inform the community of the diverse wildlife they have in Tavistock. Copies of the diary will be available to look at in the town library, Tavistock Museum and the West Devon Borough Council offices at Kilworthy Park. Last February, pupils and students from Whitchurch Primary School and the Molly Owen Centre, began the diary with a winter walk along the picturesque old railway line. They were joined by Workshop under the Sky artist Jennie Hale from Coryton, and other artists and scientists who were on hand to help the groups identify and record the wildlife on the viaduct. This project has been supported through an arts grant from West Devon Borough Council and a National Lottery Awards for All contribution. West Devon's arts officer Julia Vella said: 'The event is a wonderful opportunity to become involved in community participatory arts, learn about a local nature reserve and develop creative skills all with the help of experienced artists, scientists and rangers.' The May 5 event is being held from 10am to 4pm and there is no need to book, but if a group would like to attend, please contact Jennie on 01822 860287, or email [email protected]">[email protected] The summer walk is planned for Thursday June 21.
