A RANGE of public events are being held in Poole this month (April) to explain the next phase of the Poole Park lottery bid.

As part of the first round of funding, Borough of Poole was awarded £28,000 to carry out a range of work over a two-year period.

The second phase of the bid will be submitted in late 2016 and if successful the full £2,970,200 would be awarded for delivery between 2017 and 2020.

Now a detailed research and monitoring project on the park's lakes is being undertaken.

The council together with Bournemouth University will carry out research to gain a better understanding of the wildlife in the lakes and the environment of both the boating and freshwater lakes.

"This is the first opportunity for the public to get involved again with the Poole Park Life project," said Martin Whitchurch, project leader, environmental development team, Borough of Poole.

"We would like to talk to people about why we are researching the lake and what we are planning for the next two years with this funding, such as new designs for improvements, events and fund raising ideas."

Adrian Pinder, director, Global Environmental Solutions, Bournemouth University said: "These events represent an exciting opportunity for the research team to engage with the public.

"In addition to communicating our research objectives and findings to date, we are keen to encourage public participation in the project which will assist in identifying options for future improvements in water quality."

The first public events take place on Wednesday April 8 at the Poole Park pavilion.

From 10am to 1pm there will be a chance to find out what happens next. The planned work will be explained, how residents can help, and officers will answer any questions. Refreshments will be available.

The lake research will be explained at a session from 1pm to 4pm. The hands-on event will explore the lake and its inhabitants, where the water comes from and what happens when the sluice gates are opened.

A guided walk around the park will take place on Saturday April 18 from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Representatives from the council and the university will discuss the work taking place and what it might mean for the lottery fund project.

Suitable for all ages, booking is essential as there is a maximum of 25 spaces available. Call 01202 261358 to book a place.