Ezra’s voice: Peat-Fest South-West celebration

Our Peat-Fest South-West celebration event saw young people from across the region travel to Plymouth to join in with peat themed exhibitions, stories, songs, music and dancing.

We first met Ezra at a Peat-Fest South-West youth workshop on the Somerset levels at Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve, part of the Avalon Marshes. Here he shares his experience of the Peat-Fest South-West celebration event at Market Hall in Plymouth.

Ezra enjoying the peat bog displays in Market Hall, Plymouth. Credit Jim Wileman / Peat-Fest South-West

”I had a great time at Peat-Fest South West. Walking into the event, not quite knowing what to expect, I was awed by just how much there was going on, from epicly innovative solar artworks to peat, in the flesh (flesh? Peat-flesh?) - not to mention the wonderfully vibrant mossy carpet which draped itself all over the industrial space. It looked fantastic.

There were all kinds of different activities to engage in, both educational and creative, as well as excellent peat-themed live performances, which brought so much energy to the already cheerful and welcoming environment. The lil tardigrades that popped up all over the place were adorable, and I even learned the art of pompom making.

And of course, there was the dome, which was totally awesome - like walking into a different world. Lying down on a bean-bag, staring up at the 360° projection of various scenes from nature, I felt insanely relaxed. It was the need to observe more that just about prevented me from falling asleep in there. Just.

Everyone at the event was so friendly, and I’m genuinely so grateful for the opportunity to have attended, despite the terror of the group photo. Plus there was free pizza, so it couldn’t have gotten much better.

It seems that peatlands have a newfound place in my heart! :)