LOCAL schools could be in line for a piece of enchanted forest as organisers of this year’s Westonbirt Treefest in August are looking to find permanent homes for the wood sculptures.

But schools must act quickly, as they only have until next Monday to register their interest.

This summer three magical wood carvings will be created at Westonbirt Arboretum’s Treefest around the theme of fairytales.

The sculptures will be perfect for schools as they aim to inspire storytelling by including a seated area within the carving.

It is a Treefest tradition to find a new home for sculptures created during the event.

Simon Hough, the Forestry Commission’s recreation manager at Westonbirt Arboretum, said: “Trees and woodlands have always inspired imaginations, which is why this year we wanted our carvers to create sculptures that could be the centre of great storytelling.

“Inviting schools to keep the fairytale themed sculptures is an exciting way of sharing Westonbirt’s magic with children across the region. Fairytales play such a pivotal role in a child’s upbringing we thought it was only right to donate them to local children to enjoy during story time.”

The three designs include The Storybook by Steve Griffin, with 12 nursery rhyme books carved into the shape of an armchair, Bo Peep by Raymond Wirick, featuring Bo Peep with her sheep and The Owl and the Pussycat, by David Lucas, with characters in their boat on top of the moon.

The carvers will be supplied with Westonbirt wood to create the sculptures, measuring between one and a half and two and a half metres high.

• Expressions of interest for the school sculptures should be sent to simon.hough@forestry.gsi.gov.uk