YOUNGSTERS were able to experience the outdoors inside at a nature event.

The Wonders of Willowy Woods is a three week nature extravaganza at The Mall in Blackburn.

The free event has seen the shopping centre’s Victoria Court transformed into a magical woodland scene, which will host country side inspired activities.

The activities began on Monday, with a fully day of land art with renowned artist Richard Shilling, and a mysterious green man appeared in the shopping centre playing pipes, singing songs and entertaining young shoppers with woodland tales.

Laura Diffey, marketing manager at The Mall Blackburn, said: “It’s only two days in and we have already had an amazing response to our Willowy Woods event.

“Children have been having a great time with our land artists and the 'Wild Man of the Woods' had everyone singing along."

The daily events will run until September 2, and will feature activities including live music performances, a woodland fairy wonderland and visits from birds of pray.

For more information visit www.themall.co.uk.