VIDEO AND PICTURES: Thousands attend Major Oak Festival

Major Oak Woodland Festival.
Sam and Matthew Stevenson, 8 and 11, respectively, get a lesson in bee keeping from Judith Chase. — Major Oak Woodland Festival. Sam and Matthew Stevenson, 8 and 11, respectively, get a lesson in bee keeping from Judith Chase.

Coracle making, a Shire horse demonstration and activities for children such as claymaking were particularly well received with the public, and an estimated 4,000 people were in attendance over the two days.

People braved the rain on Saturday and enjoyed glorious sun on Sunday to celebrate Nottinghamshire’s famous ancient oak.

The event was organised by Nottinghamshire County Council in partnership with The Sherwood Forest Trust.

The free fun weekend featured heritage crafts, traditional toys, outdoor learning, environmental play and the chance to learn about conservation work and bugs and critters as well.

County council ranger Graeme Turner said: “It was a great weekend and a really enjoyable event once again.

“The festival provides a unique insight into the workings of one of Europe’s most important areas of forest both from the past and present through this interactive and enjoyable event.”

The festival is in its third year and was sponsored by Robert Woodhead Ltd, and supported by Newark and Sherwood District Council.