Spotlight Session - Ferns and Horsetails (Wednesday)

Ferns are part of an ancient group of plants known as Pteridophytes, which also includes horsetails as well as various other groups. Although many species are familiar features of our woodlands and other habitats, telling them apart is often more challenging than it first appears. In this session, we’ll take a closer look at the species most commonly found in our local area, uncovering the subtle characteristics and key features that allow us to identify them with confidence.

THE SPOTLIGHT SESSION HAS 2 PARTS:

• BEFORE THE SESSION - If you would like to learn a bit about this group before the session, we recommend that you watch this webinar beforehand: Identifying Ferns talk by James Merryweather, LNHS Virtual Talks

• ON THE DAY - Come along on the day to put your new-found knowledge into practice by having a go at identifying some of the common species.

During the session, we’ll have fresh specimens and identification guides on hand, giving you the chance to get to know the species you’re most likely to encounter across Cheshire this year. If you’re new to plant identification, we’ll help get you started and work together to understand what features to look out for. For anyone with an existing interest, it’s a great chance to find out some more detail about this group through practicing species identification in a friendly setting.

*Please note* The Spotlight Session not a formal workshop, just an opportunity to 'give it a go' along with other interested people in a shared learning environment. There will also be free hot drinks and biscuits! The event is aimed at adults, however sensible older children are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

This session takes place at the Five Villages Hall in Backford. More information on accessibility at the Five Villages Hall can be found here.

The Spotlight Sessions are free to attend. However when you book you will now be given the option to make a donation if you feel able to. This helps us to cover our costs, but is completely optional. Please note that we are not able to refund donations if you cancel your place on the session.

To find out about other events you can sign up to the RECORD mailing list here.