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Become a bat detective at Bosworth Battlefield

Posted on 03/06/2009

Leicestershire Councty Council Community Services

3 June 2009

Become a bat detective at Bosworth Battlefield

Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Country Park is celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of scientist Charles Darwin with the chance to become a bat detective for the night.

Budding bat detectives will have the opportunity to learn all about these nocturnal creatures on a night time guided walk of the historic Bosworth Battlefield Country Park, led by countryside rangers.

Taking place on Saturday, 6th June, from 8pm – 10.30pm, Bat Night will allow visitors to learn more about these fascinating creatures, beginning with an informative slide show in the Heritage Room.

Then the fun really begins as detectives step into the darkness armed with ultrasonic bat detectors to search for resident battlefield bats.

Finding these fascinating creatures can be tricky, but Bosworth Battlefield Country Park has its fair share of bats, says ranger David Luther: "We would usually hope to find brown long-eared bats on our bat hunting nights, and also Pipestrelles, which are the smallest and commonest bat in the UK.

"Hopefully we will also get the chance to see Barbastelle and Noctule Bats on our walk, as well as meet some of the other nocturnal creatures that inhabit the park."

Much of the evening will be spend outdoors so sensible clothing and footwear are advised. Places are limited so pre-booking is recommended by calling: 01455 290 429.

Prices are: adults £3, concession £2, family (2 adults + 3 children) £10, family (one adult + three children) £7.

For further information on Bosworth Battlefield, please visit www.bosworthbattlefield.com

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Notes to Editors

Background: Bosworth Battlefield is run by Leicestershire County Council and is the location of the Battle of Bosworth. The battle, which took place on 22 August 1485, brought an end to 30 years of English civil war, now known as the War of the Roses and saw King Richard III lose both his life and crown to Henry Tudor. The Battlefield includes an award-winning exhibition telling the story of the battle and looking at its impact on British history, which has been funded by an award from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Address: Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Country Park, Sutton Cheney, Nr Market Bosworth, CV13 OAD

Telephone: 01455 290 429

Web: www.bosworthbattlefield.com

For further information: Mel Atkinson – 0116 3057046 – matkinson@leics.gov.uk