ONE of the area’s most scenic nature reserves is holding its annual open day this Sunday (April 17).

The Worcestershire Wildlife Trust-owned Knapp and Papermill reserve is located in the Leigh Brook Valley, near Alfrick Pound.

It boasts an array of orchards, meadows and woodland, and organisers are hoping that the annual carpet of bluebells will be showing just in time for the event.

Visitors will be able to enjoy guided walks, stream dipping and a host of other activities, as well as spotting kingfishers and other wildlife.

Reserve warden Fergus Henderson said: “Our annual open day provides a great day out for all the family at one of the most exciting times of year for wildlife.

“It’s a great time to see spring blossoming on this fantastic reserve. We’re hoping that the harsh winter is long gone – we’re already enjoying the blossoming blackthorn and can’t wait for our woodland flowers and orchard trees to bloom too.”

Information and activities will be provided by the Worcestershire Bat Group, Worcester Barn Owl Conservation Group, the Ancient Tree Project and more. The Earth Heritage Trust will be providing a fossil display and staff from Worcestershire Wildlife Trust will be offering the chance for visitors to discover the underwater world of the Leigh Brook.

There will be local artists and craftspeople and music will be provided by Bavarian folk music group Kopanitsa. Refreshments, including a pig roast, will be available.

The event is between 11am - 5pm and costs £3 for adults and £1 for children. The reserve is three miles from the A4103 Worcester to Hereford Road and will be signposted on the day. On-site parking will be available, for more information visit worcswildlifetrust.co.uk.