11:05am Monday 4th August 2008
By Echo Reporter
NATURE lovers are being urged to join in a hunt for orchids in Purbeck.
The search for the Autumn Lady's Tresses orchid is taking place on the Ridgeway and Knowle Hills, Purbeck Ridge, on August 30. Anyone with a botanical interest or who enjoys countryside walks can join in the hunt from 2pm to 5pm.
Bryan Edwards, of the Dorset Environmental Records Centre, will be on hand to share his botanical knowledge and to keep count of the orchids found.
He said: "The Autumn Lady's Tresses is one of the last orchids of the summer to appear. I look forward to sharing it with visitors."
The Autumn Lady's Tresses - Spiranthes spiralis (Orchidacea) - is a late-flowering, honey-scented orchid.
The meeting place is Grange Arch, Steeple viewpoint, starting at the car park at the top of West Creech Hill at 2pm and walk towards Ridgeway and Knowle Hills. To book a place contact Jo Shipton on 01929 557334.
© Copyright 2001-2010 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.thisisdorset.net