MUMS and tots are getting their hands dirty and experiencing the great outdoors at a Davenham farm.

Riverside Organic, at Shipbrook Hill Farm, in Whatcroft, has started a mother and toddler group to teach children about the countryside, the environment, farm life and where their food comes from.

Simon Bennett, whose family have owned the farm for more than 70 years, said: "We started the group just before Christmas but it's just coming into it's own now we've got all the baby animals starting to be born.

"I've got children of that sort of age myself, one's three and one's five, and I can see how much they love feeding the chicks and lambs.

"My wife is also a teacher so she designed all of the sessions and the things they do."

Youngsters can now look forward to a spring of bottle feeding lambs and watching chicks hatch after being kept busy during winter months by building bird feeders and planting hedges and trees as part of the farm's conservation project.

Mother and toddler sessions are held at the farm from 10am to 11.30am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

There are still places available and for more information ring Simon or Marianne on 01606 46258.

Riverside Organic is also planning a Beer in the Barn night from 7pm on Saturday, March 15.

Visitors will get the chance to sample beers and wines in the farm setting while enjoying live music.

Admission for the event is £2.50.