Both the Shropshire and Cheshire Wildlife Trusts both have a number of exciting events coming up for people of all ages.

On October 17, the Oswestry branch of Shropshire Wildlife Trust will be holding a session on 'Bird ringing'.

Ornithologist Martin George, who is based in the area, will share insights into the lives of wild birds gained through the BTO ringing scheme.

The event will show how knowledge about the longevity of birds and their migration routes has been garnered by more than a century of ringing.

It will take place at the Methodist Church Hall in Castle Street from 7.30pm onwards.

To book, email thehardwicks@btinternet.com and entry is £3 for members and £4 for non-members.

On Saturday, October 27 there is a winter homes for wildlife drop-in session at Ellesmere's The Boathouse, running from 10am until 4.30pm.

Drop into The Boathouse all day to learn how to build a variety of hibernaculae, make a cosy home for overwintering insects and give them a helping hand.

The event is free, dogs are allowed on a lead and there are plenty of facilities – contact Cath Price for more on cathp@shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

The next day, Whitchurch's Alderford Lake will be hosting 'Let's celebrate Apples', which is a drop-in session to celebrate Britain’s best fruit.

Find out about orchards and have a go at apple carving to make your very own shrunken head.

The event is also free and again, contact Cath Price for more information.

Across the border into Cheshire, the Trust's headquarters Bickley Hall Farm will be hosting a hedgelaying session on Wednesday, October 24.

Hedge laying has a huge heritage and conservation value, and the session runs from 10am until 3pm.

The course is £35 and to book, call 01948 820728.