Spinney Wood, one of the last remaining ancient woodlands in Peterborough, played host to a bug hunt on Saturday, May 31.

Visitors also enjoyed searching for bats and identifying birds, before tucking into burgers at a barbecue at the event.

It was organised to raise the profile of work which has been carried out at the site over the past year following the award of a £9,650 National Lottery grant.

New native hazel and blackthorn trees have been planted, along with bluebells and orchids. The work at Spinney Wood has received a positive response from residents.

Deputy manager of the Westwood and Ravensthorpe Development Trust David Spark said: "The community has been very supportive of the work.

"What was previously a bit of a no-go area now has people out for walks with their dogs and enjoying the nature."

On Saturday, volunteer wildlife expert Tony Parker was on hand to guide his young charges around the nature trail on the hunt for creepy crawlies of all shapes and sizes.

He said: "Warm, sunny weather with a bit of humidity is ideal for butterflies and daytime moths. The crickets were also out in force, which is great as some years ago they were a rare sight in the Peterborough area.

"We took the kids round the wood and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The little ones seemed to be particularly fascinated by the slugs."

Lisa Harris (26), from Westwood, attended the event and said: "I took my two-year-old daughter along on Saturday, and we had great fun hunting for bugs. I'd never been to Spinney Wood before and didn't realise how great it was.

"As I have a food hygiene certificate, I ended up helping to cook the barbecue food which I really enjoyed. It was good to see everyone having such a great time."

Organisers are planning another hunt at Highlees wildlife area in the coming weeks.