MORE than 2,000 schoolchildren from Surrey and Sussex learned about bees, music and agriculture as they got closer to nature for the day.
The seventh "Connect with the Countryside" day gave pupils the chance to interact with more than 100 volunteers from the South of England Agricultural Society, to learn where their food comes from.
Reigate beekeepers were among the exhibitors who included animal handlers, visiting wildlife and country sport experts.
Derek Cleaver, of the society's education committee, said: "This exciting, interactive day, offered free to schools, captures the very essence of the society's charitable and educational aims and we would like to thank all who helped to make it such a success."
Pupils from St Catherine's Primary School, in Bletchingley, learned about old English storytelling during their visit, watching a performance from a bard accompanied by music.
The event, at Ardingly Showground on July 18, gave children the chance to meet animals, from bulls to chickens, and witness sheep shearing and birds of prey demonstrations.
They also tasted and saw production of local food including honey, fresh milk and butter.
