Transformation of an urban park is encouraging youngsters to get in touch with nature.

A programme of play sessions at the revamped Ilchester Square in North Birkenhead aims to help children to recognise the value of local green spaces.

The sessions are being organised by The Mersey Forest and run by Play Out, a local play charity. They will focus on introducing kids to natural play, helping them to reconnect with nature.

Ilchester Park is currently undergoing a transformation after a project to improve the park was granted £67,000 by The Veolia Environmental Trust through the Landfill Communities Fund.

The improvements will include tree planting, improved pathways, wildflower meadows, and the addition of natural play features such as climbing logs.

Trees have been planted on site, with further improvements set to start later this year. A celebration event to mark the changes and their significance to local people will be held on August 23.

Kath Shaw from North Birkenhead Development Trust, who is co-ordinating the activities, said: “It’s great to see so many children enjoying the improved park space and appreciating the value of natural play in a green setting, amongst all the new park trees.”

Executive director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, Paul Taylor, said: “With the improvements currently being undertaken in the park, it is clear that these play sessions are the shape of things to come for the park’s young visitors.”

Play Out sessions will be held every Wednesday and Friday between July 23 and August 20 from 12 - 4pm.