An Ashby councillor has explained the benefits to the local community of last weekend's nature awareness day.

The day was organised as part of Ashby de la Zouch Town Council's membership of the Leicestershire-wide Parish Nature Network.

Cllr Barbara Kneale says Ashby is one of the most active contributors to Naturespot.

A stand was set up in Market Street where Cllr Kneale, Ashby Tree Warden Melinda Bell and Woodland Trust volunteer Ian Retson, spoke to members of the public about local nature.

Ashby Mayor, Cllr John Deakin also paid a visit with wife Karen.

Cllr Kneale said: "We told people about the Ashby Tree Trail, there was information about the trees, some mythology and symbolism about what they were used for.

"People can walk it in about 40 minutes, it starts in the Bath Grounds and is a circular route.

"My aim is to get all this information on to the Town Council website so that people can download it for themselves.

"I just want people to have a look at what's around them and take pleasure in it.

"Trees are important for our climate change and mental health.

"Let's make the most of the trees we have, not just in Ashby, but in the Midlands area.

"The trail is generally wheelchair friendly and educational."

The stand also offered tips on looking after hedgehogs in your gardens.

Cllr Kneale added: "Hedgehog populations are being devastated at the moment, and urban hedgehogs are doing better than rural ones.

"So townies like us can put some water out or make holes in your fences, it all helps.

"You can also become a Hedgehog Champion."

The display also highlighted the Woodland Trust and Naturespot - and walks that can be done in the Ashby area.

Cllr Kneale added: "Melinda is our Naturespot representative and we highlighted three spots.

"One is the Wildlife Verge Project in Ashby, on Lower Packington Road.

"The aim of the day was to raise some enthusiasm among people - if just one person puts some water out for a hedgehog, then it'll have been worth it.

"I hope people will get out and have a look around the areas around Ashby."