News from Redbridge clubs, societies and voluntary organisations.

Wren Conservation Group

This children’s group explores the wildlife around Jubilee Pond, Wanstead Flats.

It is for seven to 11-year-olds who go out once a month to discover creepy crawlies and enjoy a pond dip.

Organiser Gill James said: “The aim is to have fun, play games and learn about nature.

“It’s great to get outdoors and engage young people with Wanstead’s natural environment.”

There is a £1.50 charge to join and parents must accompany children on their first outing. The next event is on September 20, with the group meeting at Harrow Road Pavilion, Wanstead Flats.

Call 020 8989 4898 for more information.

Friends of Wanstead Parklands

Those who want to find out about the history of Wanstead Park can go to the group’s talk entitled The Historic Gardens of Wanstead House, led by historian Dr Sally Jeffery on September 24, at the Salvation Army Hall, Southwell Grove Road, Wanstead.

There will also be a raffle with prizes, and a book stall. The event starts at 7.30pm and entry is £2.50.

Email wanstead.parklands@googlemail.com for more information.

Redbridge 18-Plus

Members of the social club strapped on their eye patches and put their skull and crossbones hats on to celebrate Pirate Day in Hastings, East Sussex.

They went to the south coast for the annual festival with thousands of people dressed as pirates. They enjoyed pirate-themed games and also played crazy golf and raced go-karts.

Pete Newson said: “It was a great day out and I was amazed at the number of people who had dressed as pirates. It was almost wall to wall with pirates at times.”

Call 020 8553 0947 for more about events and trips.

East of London Family History Society

Family roots and genealogy will be explored at a meeting on Wednesday.

The group meets monthly to discuss progress on journeys to find out more about family histories.

Members share tips, progress and stories as they discover their roots.

The Newham and Redbridge branch meeting is at Wanstead Library’s Churchill Room, Spratt Hall Road, Wanstead. Entry to the 7pm meeting is free.

Call 020 8530 4514 for more information.