THE CENTRE for Alternative Technology (CAT) in Mid Wales is celebrating the return of spring with Easter-themed school holiday fun until April 8.

Families will be encouraged to get crafty with activities in the Straw Bale Theatre at CAT, located three miles north of Machynlleth, and learn how to re-use and recycle everyday items into toys or decorations to take home.

Children can enjoy the fresh air on scavenger hunts over the seven-acre site, exploring gardens, woodlands and more, while a guided tour will share the history of CAT and how the site was transformed from an old slate quarry into a wildlife haven.

There will also be a chance to discover examples of renewable energy and sustainable building, to explore how CAT’s water systems are all naturally managed from a reservoir up in the hills and to a ride on a water-balanced railway – one of the steepest cliff railways in the world.

With welcome signs of spring now appearing, as nature wakes up after the long winter months, visitors can pull on their boots and explore CAT’s woodland trails and organic gardens for plants and animals – from ponds full of frogs and tadpoles to nest-building nuthatches.

There’s also an adventure playground and a café serving delicious food to keep families happy this Easter.

All activities are free with the entry ticket. Call Tel: 01654 705950 or visit http://visit.cat.org.uk/ to find out more.