A summer forest school returned to the Downshire Estate in Downpatrick, offering two days of outdoor activities for young people from across the Down area.

Organised by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust's Down Multi-Disciplinary Social Work Team, the programme welcomed participants aged 10 to 16 to the estate's Victorian Gardens. Now in its fourth year, the initiative invites attendees to take part in painting, crafting and nature-based games.

Activities included constructing bird boxes and fairy houses from recycled materials collected over the past year, as well as a game called 'Find the Flag' that helped participants map the grounds. Attendees said the hands-on projects were a highlight and that they would recommend the experience to friends.

Garden manager Clare McCawley said the children benefit from using materials gathered on-site, while senior social work practitioner Aine Brannigan noted the programme gives young people a chance to connect with nature, build friendships and spend time away from screens.