Country Days is the brainchild of my grandma, the late Ann Hadfield, who was awarded an MBE for services to the community in Bedford including founding and developing F4YP, a charity aimed at helping to support young people. Subsequently,
she turned her attention to the importance of the role of the natural environment in the lives of young people since she felt that both appreciation and understanding is key not only to their education but also to their future.

Consequently, she developed a nature reserve set in six acres of countryside (including woodland, a pond and several open field play areas) as a resource for young people in Bedfordshire. She wanted to encourage ‘young explorers’ from all backgrounds since she believed that everyone enjoys and benefits from the freedom and independence of thought that comes from learning outside a classroom. This has never been more urgent – it is fundamental that young people feel empowered to take ownership of their environment and its future by battling against climate change. Moreover, there is evidence that spending time outdoors counteracts mental health issues, something which is becoming more and more common for young people today. 

Following a successful pilot course in 2018, this year we ran two courses in August for 80 young people! They participated in a diverse range of activities including: pond-dipping, sport, problem-solving, poetry and performance, art and bushcraft. We are now beginning to plan the programme for summer 2020 and we would greatly appreciate your support with fundraising. Places for the course are £15 or free for those on free school meals or pupil premium but each place costs approximately £75. We believe that this is a truly unique and essential opportunity for young people in Bedfordshire; feeling connected to the natural world creates a sense of wonder and these stimulating moments provide life enhancing and long-lasting memories. There is no digital animation that can truly capture the magic of discovering frogspawn in winter, finding the first flowers of spring, running through summer meadows or seeing the leaves turning gold in autumn.

I have to admit running is not my favourite activity but I'm determined to give it my best shot... wish me luck!