A PROJECT encouraging people to stop and reflect on what wildlife means to them has been launched.

My Wild Life has been set up by Worcestershire Wildlife Trust with the aim of inspiring people to make wildlife a part of their everyday lives.

The charity believes such an approach would benefit both wildlife and humans because contact with nature is good for us.

Wendy Carter, communications manager for the trust, said: “Many studies show that people lucky enough to live near and experience green spaces are mentally and physically healthier.

“The trust is working hard to restore and protect wildlife and wild places across our beautiful county.

“Through My Wild Life we’re encouraging people from all walks of life to share their personal stories about what nature means to them.

“From well-known people like Sir David Attenborough to people who live near you, hundreds of people are taking part in My Wild Life and we’d like to hear from many more.”

Anne Williams, of Malvern Link, is just one local resident who takes every opportunity she can to get outside and listen to the natural world.

She said: “It doesn’t matter what time of year it is I love getting outside for a walk.

“I particularly enjoy walking through local woodlands – there’s always something to see or hear and, with spring just around the corner and birdsong starting to increase, it’s my release from the man-made noises of everyday life.”

Hannah Thomas, of Cradley, similarly likes nothing better than getting away from it all.

She added: “I take every opportunity I can to find beautiful landscapes, explore hidden corners and go walking in beautiful countryside – and we have a lot of that around here.

“It’s not just an escape from the bustle of everyday life – it also gives me the chance to discover new places and nature’s treasures.

“I feel so much better after I’ve spent time outside.”

Sir David Attenborough, The Wildlife Trusts’ president emeritus, has travelled the world in search of wildlife but in London, where he lives, he can watch stag beetles flying in his garden and marvel at ancient trees in London’s parks.

He said: “Contact with nature should not be the preserve of the privileged. It is critical to the personal development of our children.

“People turn to nature in moments of joy and in moments of sadness. We are part of the natural world: we depend on it for the air we breathe and the food we eat.”

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust is encouraging people to share their own story or wildlife and wild places that matter to them and why, using #MyWildLife on twitter, facebook and instagram.

For more information visit worcswildlifetrust.co.uk.