TWO special trails featuring ancient trees and woodland creatures at Castle Park, Frodsham, have been arranged by Cheshire West and Chester Council and the Castle Park Trust.

Award-winning tree carver, Simon O'Rourke has been commissioned to create outstanding wooden sculptures around the park. With bees, spiders, honeycomb, lavender and foliage, the first trail tells the story of Matilda the Bee and some very naughty wasps.

The park’s popular tree trail has also been relaunched. Visitors can now be guided around the park to view 19 impressive species. The first tree in the trail is an impressive Copper Beech near the entrance which is approximately 200 years old. The trail then winds around the park and covers both old and young specimens, like the Small Leaved Lime, with heart shaped leaves, which was planted last month in honour of our late Queen – these trees were often planted along roadsides by royal decree as they were thought to bring good luck during harvests.

Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Councillor Louise Gittins said: "We all know the benefits of being outdoors and enjoying nature, and these two new trails add to the fun at Castle Park, Frodsham.

"The story of Matilda the bee is delightful, despite being kidnapped by wasps there is a happy ending but I won’t spoil the story any further for you…

"Simon recently visited the park to create another sculpture using a dead tree, the results are outstanding and I’m sure visitors will marvel at his creations and the beautiful selection of trees in the park."

The full Matilda The Bee story is available on the Castle Park website, together with a leaflet mapping the locations of each tree.