Wildlife-themed event inspires visitors to connect with nature

Families and students from across Surrey came together in a powerful celebration of nature, creativity and community on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 September, at Surrey Nature Day. The beautiful grounds of West Horsley Place played host to over 1,000 people at the free, DEFRA funded, Surrey County Council organised event.

On Friday, 500 students aged 5 to 18, from over 15 Surrey schools, and Mayors from five district and boroughs, attended the event. They were treated to performances of Wild Walks, produced and directed by Guildford Shakespeare Company. Set in the gardens of the manor house, the immersive show captivated young minds, encouraging them to explore the importance of habitat restoration and how we can work together to protect it. 

In addition, students also enjoyed an interactive, educational exhibition, featuring stallholders from across the Council and its partners. Each stall taught a valuable lesson about the county’s efforts to restore and protect local biodiversity.

Despite lashing rain, everyone left with a smile on their face and enthusiastic about the cause.

Saturday saw the skies clear, and sunshine welcomed hundreds of visitors, of all ages, to enjoy the activities at the family day. 

Surrey Nature Day’s core focus was to give residents an opportunity to share their ideas and learn more about Surrey’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy, a spatial plan to restore biodiversity and nature throughout the county.  

Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Councillor Marisa Heath, said: “I was really impressed at how many residents attended this fantastic event and how engaged they were in the workshops and discussions. It brought together people of all ages to celebrate and learn about our local environment and the event offered something for everyone from the captivating performances of Wild Walks to the stalls and activities.”

 “It was clear to me that nature really matters to our residents and that it will be the community that sits at the centre of driving forward nature recovery in Surrey.”

 “I encourage all residents to find out more about how we are working together to protect Surrey’s natural spaces for generations to come, and how they can get involved.”

 Residents are encouraged to stay connected and contribute to the formation of the plan as it moves into the next stage. 

View photos from the event, find out more about Surrey Nature Recovery and subscribe for important updates about the consultation at www.surreynaturerecovery.commonplace.is