YOUNGSTERS got up and close to nature as part of a Bank Holiday 'pond dipping' event.

More than 150 children gathered to take part in the special event at the Darcy Lever Gravel Pits.

They enjoyed a host of activities including feeding the frog, dipping for wildlife, searching for great crested dragon's eggs and face painting.

The event was organised by the Gravel Pits Action Group (GPAG) and has been held every year for the past four years.

Mike Fisher, leader of GPAG, said he was delighted with the year's turnout and said the event is going from strength to strength. Mr Fisher said: "We've been putting this on every year for the past four years. It starts with a procession from Darcy Lever to the Gravel Pits.

"It was a huge success – we think more than 150 people turned up. This is an area of special importance for wildlife. The event is important for the community and the youngsters love to get involved."

The Gravel Pits is a 28-acre site made up of several ponds and woodlands. The site has been designated a Grade one site of Biological Importance, and is a haven for many species of flora and fauna.

There are 18 species of dragonfly and all five UK species of amphibian – including the famous great crested newt – breeding on the site. Bats, foxes and roe deer have also been spotted.