The One Show wildlife reporter Mike Dilger visits St Neots

BBC ecologist Mike Dilger went to housebuilder Stonebond's Wintringham development in St Neots ahead of the local school's wlildlife day.

The television presenter placed traps around the area before children arrived the next morning armed with collection jars, butterfly nets and magnifying glasses.

17 students and three staff from Wintringham Primary Academy investigated the moth and mammal traps and discussed their findings with Mike, before going on a bug hunt.

Wildlife event with Mike Dilger at Wintringham Primary Academy (Image: Stonebond)

All wildlife discovered was released at the end of the session. Mike then headed back to Wintringham Primary Academy to do a presentation to the whole school.

Ecologist Mike Dilger said: “Children love the sense of discovery and wonder that spending time in nature provides. Early years outdoor experiences build a firm foundation for respecting and understanding the importance of the natural world.

“It was a real joy to share in building that understanding with the young people of St Neots.”

Tracy Bryden, executive headteacher at Wintringham Primary Academy, said: “With a playing field, a wetland area and a grove in the centre of the school, pupils have the chance to connect with nature in different ways and in different environments.

Wildlife event with Mike Dilger at Wintringham Primary Academy (Image: Stonebond)

“Having the opportunity to discover local nature with Mike Dilger and Stonebond has been an exciting opportunity for the children to further their learning.”

Annette Cole, sales and marketing director at Stonebond, who organised the event, said: “We were delighted that Mike could spend the day at Wintringham and share the joy of discovering local nature with the children and staff of the academy.

“It was great to take some time to see the impact of that on our youngest community members and to see them so enthused about their local natural environment.”