Creative workshops set tone for a greener way of living

People wanting to pick up tips on how to become more eco-friendly are invited to an event in Bath this weekend.

The Big Transition Event will take place on Saturday and see a number of speakers discussing their involvement with green issues.

There will also be workshops where people can swap skills and learn more about looking after the environment.

Big Event organiser Jenny MacKewn said the day was a chance for anyone interested in environmental issues to come together and swap stories.

She said: "The Big Transition Event will be a fun and creative day of talks and workshops – a chance to meet other like-minded people, listen to and debate with green living gurus and swap ideas and questions.

"It will be family-friendly with children made very welcome while parents network.

"If you seek to find out more about how best to go easy on our planet this is a day to inspire you."

Two of those taking to the stage to speak will be King Edward's School pupils Tom Youngman and Will Neaverson, who have been awarded this year's Wiltshire Life Young Achievers Award for their work developing a car share website.

Tom, 16, is now working towards setting up a Bath Schools Environment group to help local schools share advice and work together on green initiatives.

Other speakers include environmentalist and author Mark Lynas, Bath-based ecologist Julian Caldecott, and leading Bath-based eco- architect Piers Taylor.

Children are welcome too and can take part in creative workshops throughout the day.

The event will take place at the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution in Queen Square on Saturday and runs from 9.30am to 5pm.

Tickets cost £10 for adults, £7 for concessions and £4 for children aged three to 10 and can be bought from the Bath Festivals box office in Abbey Green or on 01225 463362.

For details, go to www.transitionbath.org.uk/the-big-event .