PEOPLE can discover the natural wonders of Morecambe Bay on a free guided nature walk.

Financial Management Bureau, in Kendal, is hosting a talk by Gemma Wren, from NaturesGems, who organises guided nature walks in the area.

The event will take place at Arnside Sailing Club from 7pm to 10pm on June 14. It will see Gemma talk about the wildlife and habitats that are found around the Bay, as well as share some of her stories from over two decades working in conservation.

Gemma worked for the National Trust for 13 years, before setting up NaturesGems two years ago.

She is working with local groups and businesses to support the development of a nature-based sustainable tourism offer.

“Morecambe Bay is one of the most biodiverse parts of England and no-one really seems to know about it,” said Gemma.

“I thought that we needed to change that.”

Gemma runs small group guided tours around the Bay with a focus on encouraging more tourism in the area in a managed and sustainable way.

“I think a lot of people live here and don’t understand the significance of what we have on the doorstep,” she said.

“The Bay is the largest tidal estuary in the UK, which makes it one of the most important habitats for wading birds. Over half of all the UK’s butterfly species live in the area.

“We have an incredible array of flowering plants, including many rarities, and because we’re in the middle of the country we get that mixing of species where they are either just at the northern or southern end of their range.

“I want to try and help people to stop and look and think about what is around them.”

FMB managing director Liz Beavis said: "We're committed to supporting initiatives which help our local area thrive and helping people to enjoy all the great things we have on our doorstep.

“Gemma is doing great work to raise awareness of the Bay in a way which is sustainable and beneficial for local businesses, as well as the environment. As 2023 is the Year of the Coast we thought it was a great opportunity to help bring her work to a wider audience and celebrate the natural wonders of Morecambe Bay.“

People can reserve their free tickets for the event by going to www.finman.co.uk/events