Pensthorpe Natural Park is looking for 10 budding naturalists to form its first ever junior board and help shape its future.

Youngsters aged between five and 10, with a passion for nature, can put themselves forward for the board by entering a simple competition.

If selected, they will be the first children to test out the park's brand new indoor play area Hootz House and give their feedback on events and trails.

Meeting on eight Sundays throughout the year, the youngsters will learn all about the park's wildlife and will design their own, unique bowler hat complete with feathers from their favourite birds or natural materials.

The family attraction, near Fakenham, is spearheading a campaign to encourage youngsters to switch on to nature this summer.

Co-owner Deb Jordan believes it is important to spark children's curiosity at an early age.

'Our mission is to conserve nature and inspire others to do the same and this is a great opportunity for children to learn about nature in a fun way whilst helping Pensthorpe to become an even better family day out,' she said.

'We all know children are frank and honest so I'm looking forward to hearing all of their suggestions and reading about their fun adventures on our blog.'

Children who would like to join the Junior Board should answer the following question:

What do you like the most about playing outdoors?

An email, letter or picture from youngsters aged between five and 10 can be sent to Carey Briggs at carey.briggs@pensthorpe.com or posted to Carey Briggs, WildRootz junior board co-ordinator, Pensthorpe Natural Park,

Fakenham NR21 0LN. The deadline for entries is Thursday, April 23.