Biodiversity Ranger Karl Curtis with Asha-Mae Fawthrop, 7 Picture Ref: 77539-187MORE than 30 people joined in an adventure aimed at reversing the perception of nettles as a troublesome weed.

The Nature for All event on Sunday helped families discover the importance of nettles to wildlife.

There was also arts and crafts and nettle tea at the Seven Fields Nature Reserve.

Children did nettle sweeps with nets which picked up spiders, caterpillars and beetles.

Nature for All is a Swindon Services Ranger project.

Ranger Johannah Fawthrop, 37, said: "People really enjoyed themselves. They didn't realise how important nettles are. They do have a bad reputation but they are vital to wildlife and there are so many different types of colours and species."

Rangers are organising another event at the Town Gardens, Old Town, on June 11.

Between 4pm and 10.30pm there will be a Butterfly Ball. DJs, stilt walkers, jugglers and an organic barbecue will be among the attractions.

The event is aimed at attracting young adults to nature reserves.