AN OUTDOOR education centre in Wareham Forest celebrates is 70th anniversary this month - and Daily Echo readers are being asked to get involved by sharing their memories.

Carey Outdoor Education Centre, or Carey Camp, opened in 1947 to give children - mostly from Dorset schools - their first taste of camping and outdoor life.

It is estimated that more than 150,000 youngsters have been welcomed, either as residential or day visitors.

Centre manager Paul Burrows said: "It is fascinating to go through the archive, especially reading people's memories of their stay at Carey Camp.

"We'd love to hear from anyone who remembers visiting, particularly if other generations of their family also stayed there.

"We're hoping to find families whose connection with us spans three generations or more."

Run by Dorset County Council (DCC), the camp is based on the banks of the River Piddle, and teaches schoolchildren orienteering, archery, den building, low ropes, mountain biking and tree climbing. Students also do environment and river studies."

Paul said: "As well as the fun activities, children are encouraged to embrace campsite life, joining in with tasks such as washing-up, collecting firewood and keeping the site tidy.

"Even small things like remembering to zip up their tents to keep out the elements is a lesson in self-sufficiency."

Meanwhile, DCC education, learning and skill cabinet member Deborah Croney said: "The centre provides a fantastic venue for learning throughout the year.

"For many children, their stay is a first taste of independence, and the chance to learn about the environment in an exciting and memorable way.

"We are proud to have been offering this wonderful opportunity to groups of all ages for so many years."

The centre will be having a 70th birthday party, on site, on September 21.

Staff and people who visited the camp in the past will be attending this event.

If you have any memories to share, contact Carey Outdoor Education Centre via careyoec@dorsetcc.gov.uk or call 01929 552265.