A WHOLE weekend of attractions and activities will be taking place on Burbage Common this week as the popular Countryside Open Day has been expanded to a two-day event.

The area around the visitor centre at the Leicester Road entrance will be transformed on Saturday (17th) and Sunday (18th), with marquees housing a range of stalls and activities from 10.30am to 4.30pm on both days.

Locally-grown produce and hot food will be available from a farmers’ market on Saturday, while locally-produced arts and crafts will also be on display, together with various demonstrations and craft workshops.

Meanwhile on Sunday there will be a range of countryside activities on offer for all the family, from archery and minibeast safaris to pond dipping and birdwalks. There will also be falconry displays and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Local countryside, conservation and wildlife groups will be attending as well.

Car parking and admission is free, and most of the activities will also be free.

Sally Crossfield, the Rural Issues and Events Officer, said: "This is one of the main events that the council organises promoting our countryside and is enjoyable as well as knowledgeable. It is a fantastic day out for all the family".

For further information contact Sally on 01455 255893.