THE heritage of the marshland around Lowestoft and the stories of those who work and live nearby are being brought to life through a new project.Suffolk Wildlife Trust, which has been looking after Carlton Marshes for the past 35 years, has set up the Magic of the Marsh project to explore the history of the area and showcase its current role and hopes for the future.

THE heritage of the marshland around Lowestoft and the stories of those who work and live nearby are being brought to life through a new project.

Suffolk Wildlife Trust, which has been looking after Carlton Marshes for the past 35 years, has set up the Magic of the Marsh project to explore the history of the area and showcase its current role and hopes for the future.

A roadshow will visit some local schools in the spring to teach youngsters about the stories, colours, smells and images associated with the marsh landscape.

The Magic of the Marsh project will include a scarecrow competition in the summer. Schools and youth groups are being invited to make their own marsh man scarecrow to depict someone who might have used the Suffolk Broads, wither in the past or in the present day.

They will be put on display around Carlton Marshes during the school summer holidays as part of a celebration event which will include an animated trail, games and crafts.

The winning scarecrow will win a free trip for their class or group to Carlton Marshes education centre in the autumn.

The deadline and collection date for the scarecrows is July 12. For more information, contact Gemma Smith on 01502 564250 or email carlton.education@suffolkwildlifetrust.org.