FAMILIES in Ross-on-Wye are being invited to enjoy a programme of free activities during the October half term, including storytelling, outdoor nature play and illustration sessions.

Ross-on-Wye Town Council has organised activities across three days, with events aimed at children of different ages and interests. All sessions are free and no advance booking is required.

The programme begins at Ross Library on Tuesday, October 27, with two special book readings.

From 10am to 11am, Suzan Ruben-Alderton will read her illustrated story The Fairy Who Lived in a Pop Can, which encourages children to think about nature, the environment and their community.

Author Tracy Lee May will then read Bumpy: The Warthog from 2pm to 3pm. The story follows a warthog with a love of beans and is inspired by Tracy's encounters with animals and passion for wildlife.

Children attending either reading will also have the chance to win a copy of the featured books.

Activities will move outdoors on Wednesday, October 28, when Wildplay takes place at Caroline Symonds Gardens by the Bandstand between 10am and noon.

The drop-in session will feature nature activities and a trail, with families able to stay for some or all of the two-hour event. Organisers advised children to dress for messy play and bring waterproof clothing if conditions are wet.

The programme concludes at Ross Town Hall in Cantilupe Road on Friday, October 30, with two illustration sessions led by Tracy.

Running from 10am to 11am and noon to 1pm, the sessions will offer tips on creating illustrations for cards and pictures and are recommended for children aged seven and above.

Parents and carers must remain with their children and are responsible for supervision throughout all of the activities.

The council said the programme offered families a varied choice of activities during the holiday.