Trustees from Wildlife Friendly Otley last week met award-winning nature writer Amy Jane Beer who is a keynote speaker at the Otley Wildlife Arts Festival on Saturday.
They were all joining other nature organisations, such as Yorkshire Rewilding Network and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, in York as part of the ‘Restore Nature Now’ rally staged at DEFRA offices nationwide asking for urgent action from government to reverse biodiversity loss.
Trustee, Helen Hey, who was at the peaceful protest and made a rousing speech, said: “It was inspirational and energising to see so much positivity and hope. We can't rely on our politicians to drive the changes we need for our wildlife, so it's crucial that we help people connect with nature and understand the benefits that green spaces and abundant wildlife have on our wellbeing and the planet’s.
“That's why events like our Wildlife Arts Festival are so important. We are offering a diverse programme, so there really is something for everyone to enjoy!”
The popular festival, organised by local charity Wildlife Friendly Otley, runs from Friday 6th October to Sunday 8th October, kicking off with music from Boff Whalley (Chumbawumba) and Daniel Bye and closing with Wildlife Friendly Otley’s new patron, the leading entomologist, environmental campaigner and television presenter George McGavin.
On Saturday night, Yorkshire-based Dr Amy Jane Beer will deliver a talk entitled ‘Wild Water, Wild Service’, discussing her award-winning book, her connection with rivers such as the Wharfe, and how we can all make a difference for wildlife and nature.
The weekend programme of events includes art workshops, children’s activities, free talks and an art and photography at the Courthouse on Saturday from 10am to 4pm, plus a variety of stalls from local wildlife organisations.
The festival is supported for the third year running by local business Sinclair’s Products and Otley Town Council’s Community Development Fund, and by Leeds Inspired.
Find the full festival programme at wildlifefriendlyotley.org.uk/festival
Ticket booking is open now, Visit: https://otleycourthouse.org.uk/
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