AXE Valley Focus Group is organising a week of free outdoor activities for youngsters aged 13 and over on the Axe Wetlands nature reserves.

AXE Valley Focus Group is organising a week of free outdoor activities for youngsters aged 13 and over on the Axe Wetlands nature reserves.

Young people will have the chance to try archery, handle birds of prey, take part in a crabbing competition at Axmouth Harbour and see wild birds.

There will be a storytelling session on the Marshes, willow weaving, survival skills and a barbeque.

Kate Tobin, East Devon District Council's project coordinator for the Axe Wetlands, and Penny Fildew, Area Youth Worker for Devon Youth Service, have been working together to support the young people in their bid to raise funding.

Kate said: "It's great to see the Wetlands being used for activities for all ages, and especially to see young people getting a chance to get close to wildlife and enjoy the outdoors."

Jack, 14, one of the organisers from the Axe Valley Focus Group, said: "It will be great fun and will give young people a chance to try something new in the summer holidays - and best of all it's free!"

The Youth Opportunities Fund awarded Axe Valley Focus Group �885, and the team will run activities from Monday, August 3, to Friday, August 7.

Places at all the events need to be booked in advance. Details and a booking form are available online at www.eastdevon.gov.uk/countryside or through Diane Berry, in EDDC's Countryside Service, on 01395 517 557.