If you go down into the gardens at Rufford Old Hall – and tread very quietly – you might just find yourself a gnome!

It’s that time of year again when Rufford’s annual Easter gnome hunt is about to take place. Catherine Davies is Rufford’s events’ co-ordinator.

“Garden gnomes originated in Europe and came across to the UK in the mid 19th century” says Catherine.

“They were seen as a ‘must have’ for any wealthy people to have in their gardens – so it’s possible that the Hesketh family who lived at Rufford would have had gnomes in the formal gardens here.”

“All children who take part in the gnome hunt will be awarded a Cadbury Easter Egg. Cadbury is supporting our Easter weekend events here, and will also be bringing along a face painter and lots of delicious chocolate eggs!”

Meanwhile, it’s going to be a great year for bluebells – and Rufford’s should be in full bloom by Easter.

David Roberts, Rufford’s head gardener said: “ We’re just starting to see the first signs of bluebells several weeks early, so by Easter there should be a wonderful show of these beautiful flowers in the gardens”

There’s another very important event coming up during the Easter holidays - the Royal Wedding.

“As the Hall is not open on the day of the Royal Wedding, we decided to include a ‘royal’ activity over Easter” says Catherine.

”So one of our children’s craft activities will include cutting out and colouring figures of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in their wedding outfits. Other craft activities will be making Easter cards and Easter baskets”.

The Gnome Hunt and Easter activities take place at Rufford Old Hall on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 April, 11am – 4pm.

Craft sessions, which last around an hour, are at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm each day.

There is a charge of £2.50 per craft session, and the Gnome Hunt is £1 or you can buy a combined ticket at £3. Please note normal entrance admission charges apply.

You can find details of Cadbury events at Rufford Old Hall by going to www.eastereggtrail.com and National Trust events at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events.

Rufford Old Hall and Gardens are open Sat – Weds, 11am – 5pm. For information call 01704 821254.