DEN building has been keeping Stroud children busy during their long school holiday.

The youngsters were at Woodchester Mansion for one of its special summertime activity days.

Led by retired primary headteacher Chris Taylor, a volunteer helper at the mansion, the boys and girls gathered logs and branches from the surrounding parkland to build their den.

Later in the day, the group enjoyed tracking and created environmental pictures from other items they had collected.

Mum Anna Giangiordana, from Selsley, said her son Jack Foote, nine, loved the day.

β€œIt was a great way to get us out and about during the holidays,” Anna said.

Staff and volunteers at the mansion, which is open to the public six days a week, are now keeping their fingers crossed for a windy day next Wednesday (August 20) when they plan to build and fly kites with five to 11 year olds.

The visitor attraction, a registered charity, will repeat its outdoor fun session on August 27, but this time for nine to 12 year olds.

To find out more visit: www.woodchestermansion.org.uk