BUG detectives went on a hunt at Hall i'th' Wood to see what lurks in the grounds of the historical 16th-century manor house.

Armed with nets and specialist equipment children aged five found out which creepy crawlies had made the hall their home.

Around 60 young detectives took to the grounds led by bug expert Don Stenhouse to find the insects, examine them and then let them go back to their natural habitat.

They spotted butterflies, crickets, flies and bumble bees.

And Mr Stenhouse also brought with him some cockroaches and stick insects from the museum so people could have a closer look at them.

The bug hunt is said to be one of the most popular activities at the hall and another is planned in August.

To add some extra fun to the event, the museum staged an indoor bug trail, where visitors were invited to find bugs of the plastic nature hidden around the hall and identify them — whilst giving them a chance to explore the hall at the same time.

The event was one of many taking place in Bolton over the half-term break organised by the libraries and museums service — many which were themed around bugs.

On Friday, Smithills Hall will be hosting a crafty bugs session where children can make their own ladybirds and butterflies between 1pm and 3pm.

Earlier this week 150 people took part in a wildlife train and craft activity based around woodland scenes at Smithills Hall.

And although the half-term break may soon be over, there are still plenty of fun events for young people to do on the weekends.

These includes a Tudor day at Hall i'th' Wood Museum on Saturday, June 6 and a range of craft activities to mark Bookstart Week.

Many more events are planned for the summer holidays including Fantastic Fridays at Smithills Hall.

A Bolton Council spokesman said: "Our bug hunt at Hall i’ th’ Wood was particularly popular with around 60 children discovering and learning about the insects that live in the hall’s grounds. Visitors were also able to enjoy activities inside the hall, which is free admission.

"Plans are now under way for our packed summer programme of events, which includes lots of free and family-friendly activities at both historic halls, our libraries and Bolton Museum and Central Library in Le Mans Crescent. Visit www.boltonlams.co.uk for more details.”