Come and take part in a day of tree-related activities for all the family at the Hornbeam Centre (named after the prized local tree found throughout Waltham Forest). There will be talks and workshops, practical demonstrations, tree identification, history and folklore, children's activities, art and storytelling. All welcome to any part of the day.

What's on:
The Hornbeam cafe is open all day for fresh tasty breakfast, lunch, cakes and drinks, including some tree-related treats! Buy fresh fruit and veg from the organic stall outside (10-3). And browse our information and exhibitions to find out about future events and all aspects of trees from growing to green woodworking.

Through the day: Introduction to green woodworking
Using sustainable woodland materials, no power tools in sight - drop in for a demonstration or have a go yourself. Adrian Leaman, Wholewoods.

11.15-12.15: The birth and growth of woodlands in Hackney
How local people have transformed and enriched formerly mown grasslands into diverse environments for wildlife and people. Presentation by Annie Chipchase, Hackney Tree Nursery.

11.15-12.15: Ogham tree alphabet
This ancient symbol alphabet used by the Celts contained hidden secrets for magic and divination. Storyteller Ariane Hadjilias reveals.

12.30-1.30: Trees on our streets
What role do trees play in our urban environment? Rupert Bentley-Walls from Hackney Council Highways Department talks about street trees and their management, the whys and wherefores.

12.30-1.30: Tree puppets
Make your own marionette puppet, maybe an oak king or a holly king, a beech queen or a green man, or a tree fairy to celebrate the tree spirit. With puppeteer Emel Kahmaran.

12.30-1.30: Tree essences
A guided tour of local trees - find out how tree essences can be used for holistic health and emotional well-being. With Sarah Peacock, homeopath and flower essence therapist.

1.45-2.45: Tree stories
Come and hear sagas and legends from our tree folklore. With storyteller Ariane Hadjilias.

3-4: Trees for food
How trees can play a key role in "localising" the urban food supply. Workshop with Ru Litherland, who has been involved in several community orchard projects in East London and Organiclea's 'scrumping project'.

3-4: Tree art
Come and be creative! With artist Marlis Scholz.

4-5: Tree celebration
A gathering to end the day and celebrate our local trees together.

All taking place at the Hornbeam Centre, 458 Hoe St, E17, where Hoe Street meets Bakers Avenue, near the Bakers Arms junction. Nearest tube station Walthamstow Central, served well by buses coming to the Bakers Arms junction on Lea Bridge Road and many cycle routes.

For enquiries call the Hornbeam Centre on 020 8558 6880