SOUTH Gloucestershire’s Discover Festival has been launched with a series of free open days at places of interest across the district.

The six-week-long festival was opened on Thursday (September 11) and will include more than 150 free events for residents to find out what makes South Gloucestershire a great place to live and work.

One of the themes of this year’s festival is heritage, linking with the national Heritage Open Days scheme which took place at the weekend.

Events in South Gloucestershire saw Winterbourne Medieval Barn, a unique tythe barn built in 1342 by Thomas de Bradeston, open to the public. The 12th century St Michael’s Parish Church in Winterbourne also opened its doors and there were tours of the 169 year-old St Saviour’s Church in Coalpit Heath, the Oldwood Pits coal mine in Rangeworthy and a rare opportunity to explore Warmley Grotto.

Cllr Claire Young, chairman of South Gloucestershire Council’s communities committee, said: “The Discover Festival draws together lots of existing events throughout the district, and is a great way for residents to find out about what is happening in their local community.

“From history talks to singing workshops, there is something for everyone to discover.”

From now until the end of the Discover Festival on October 31, there will be more than 150 free events including bat walks, owl prowls, wild walks, country dancing, apple days and Tai Chai trials. There will also be craft sessions including have a go at stained glass design, jewellery making or portrait drawing.

For more information about the festival visit www.southglos.gov.uk/discover or like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/discoversouthglos