Mushrooms sprouting forth

19th September 2011

Forestry Commission ranger Steve Palmer casts his eye over this year’s fungi crop.

MUSHROOMS SPROUTING FORTH AS AUTUMN COMES EARLY IN THE BORDERS

Fungi fans of all ages are being invited to join expeditions through Kielder Water & Forest Park to get to grips with mushrooms and toadstools.

The Forestry Commission has organised two exciting forages on 16 October led by experts with a passion for fungi.

Score of varieties are sprouting forth, adding up to an early Autumn for Mother Nature. Even the trees are turning colour ahead of time.

Malte Iden, Kielder Castle Ranger said;

“It’s looking very good, helped by the more moist and warmer weather of recent weeks. There are hundreds of different kinds of fungi in Kielder, but it’s pretty crucial to know what you are looking for. Some are truly tasty, but others will leave you with an upset stomach or even worse.”

Walks start at 10.30am, meeting at Greenhaugh School, near Bellingham. Another takes places at 2.30pm meeting at Warksburn Picnic Site, Stonehaugh. The cost is £6 adults, £5 concessions and £16 family for a family of four.

More light will be shed on fungi during two day-long workshops run by Newcastle University's Gordon Beakes at Kielder Castle on 1 and 23 October. Aimed at beginners the cost is £25, including lunch.

Booking is essential for all these events on 01434 250209, or by calling at Kielder Forest Visitor Centre.

Media calls to Richard Darn on 0775 367 0038

Note to Editor

The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible in England for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment. Forestry makes a real contribution to sustainable development, providing social and environmental benefits arising from planting and managing attractive, as well as productive, woodlands.