Ref. 71967-47THE WORLD of wood was celebrated at an eco-friendly event in Swindon.

The sixth Forest Festival brought together a day of tree-themed activities.

The annual event, which aims to promote a greener lifestyle, attracted thousands of people on Saturday as the Lawns in Old Town came to life with music, dance and art.

The theme for this year's festival was World Wide Woods with projects geared towards trees from across the globe.

There was also an ancient tree trail, which traced the many species imported from different countries.

Entry was free and visitors had the chance to learn more about the Great Western Community Forest project.

Ali Bruce, spokeswoman for the project, was delighted with the turn-out.

She said: "This event has grown and developed each year.

"The whole purpose is for people to learn more about the Community Forest project. Also the festival can raise awareness of the environment and about what other people in this area are doing to protect it.

"People can look at the place they live, think about the space around their homes, and about recycling."

But she said that the most important aim of the day was to have fun. "There are lots of workshops and a tree trail where people can learn about trees from all over the world," she said.

Of all the activities on offer, birdbox making proved especially popular.

Tom Adams, 12, from Old Town, said: "I've been making a bird box. The festival is good because everything is free."

Seven-year-old Libby Bowles, from Hodson, made a box for blue tits. She said: "My brother Joe made a box for robins last year." Her mother, Sarah Bowles, 40, said that two pairs of birds had already used the box. "The festival is great," she said. "It's the third year we have come. I think it helps people's awareness of forestry issues and the countryside." Another group of children were using green pedal power to make a radio work and blow up balloons.

Jessica Redzikowska, five, of Lawn, said: "I was making a long balloon blow up. It was difficult"

Her mother Emma, 31, said: "We come every year. I think it's fantastic and the kids really enjoy it. "

Demon-strating his woodcraft skills was Dave Sea-bourne, 40, of Erle-stoke, near Devizes, who was making traditional hurdles and wooden chairs.

He said: "It's a great job.

"I get to play in the woods all winter. I'll never be rich but maybe I'll live a little longer.

"It's the first time I've been to this festival, but anything that gets people out and thinking about what's going on around them is no bad thing."