IDEAS on how to celebrate the golden jubilee of a country park are being requested by Herefordshire Council.

The Queenswood Arboretum is celebrating its 50th birthday and the council's parks and countryside committee want ideas for a special programme of activities.

The arboretum was created in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II after an appeal by Sir Richard Cotterell, the then Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire.

The council is looking for volunteers from local special interest groups to help in the activities scheduled to run at the park in Dinmore Hill between Easter and bonfire night next year.

"We would particularly like to hear from you if you are an experienced guide and would be able to lead a theme-guided walk which reflects the varied range of interests offered at Queenswood Country Park," said James Bisset, Herefordshire Council's countryside community officer.

"From wild flowers in spring to fungal forays in the autumn there really is a wide variety and hopefully something for everyone to enjoy," he said.

"It could be an ideal opportunity for you to gain publicity, promote your group, attract new members and at the same time help us to celebrate our jubilee."

The countryside team is also eager to hear people's stories and memories of the park. A selection of stories and photographs will go on display at the park and will be published in a souvenir guidebook.

Anyone who might be able to help can contact the Herefordshire Parks and Countryside Service at PO Box 41, Leominster, HR6 0ZA or call 01568 798320.