Summer may have been a bit of a wash out, but the experts at the Forestry Commission are still predicting some spectacular displays of autumn colours in its woodlands in West Devon.
Due to all the rainfall over the summer the autumn colours may appear slightly later than usual but they are set to be as glorious as ever.
The Forestry Commission's annual 'Autumn Colours' campaign went live last Friday and people are now able to log on to the website and watch the progress of the change to autumn colours in all the UK's woodlands.
The campaign encourages people to get out and about in their local woodlands to enjoy the wonderful colours nature gives us at this time of year.
The South West has no fewer than six autumn colours hot spots, two of which are in West Devon. One is Abbeyford Wood, near Okehampton and the other is Lydford Woods.
Area forester for West Devon Martin Webb said: 'Both Abbeyford and Lydford woods are beautiful at all times of the year but they are really breathtaking during the autumn months. Because they are both mixed woodland you really get to see a wide range of colours at this time of year and both are well worth a visit.'
There is also a Fungus Foray event this autumn at Abbeyford Woods on Saturday October 18. Jeff Benn from Devon Fungus Group will lead this two-hour foray to identify fungi and find out what is edible. People interested in attending can call 01392 834233 for further information.
To keep track of the 'Autumn Colours' campaign visit the website http://www.forestry.gov.uk/autumn">www.forestry.gov.uk/autumn