Visitors exploring Runcorn's Wigg Island Community Park can now look forward to a musical twist thanks to the hard work of local school children and volunteers.

Working with artist Angela Sidwell and the site's rangers, the groups have unveiled an art project made up of leaf-shaped wind chimes suspended in the tree tops along one of the nature reserve's most popular woodland trails.

Dave Forsyth, Chair of The Friends of Wigg Island, explains: "The project is called the 'Ringing Tree' and recreates an old fairy tale about a spoiled princess who forces a besotted prince to find a magic musical tree."

Hanging alongside a series of ringing bells, the oak-shaped metal leaves were designed by The Brow Junior School, All Saints Primary School, Upton Conservation Group, Halton Day Services, and guide, brownie and rainbow groups from across the local area.

The musical tree can be found in the 'Troll Trail' nature area of the park and complements the trail's wooden sculptures. The project to create the tree was coordinated by The Mersey Forest and funded through the Landfill Communities Fund by Runcorn-based chemical manufacturer INEOS ChlorVinyls.

Jo Sayers from The Mersey Forest said: "Walks in natural environments have been scientifically proven to have a calming and relaxing effect - and soothing musical art like this can only add to that."

Janet Ward of INEOS ChlorVinyls said: "The project will enhance the sensory experience for visitors to the park and fits perfectly with the park's wonderful location perched on the edge of the river."

To find out more, call Bill Morton from Halton Borough Council, Parks and Countryside Service on 01928 563 803.