Nature features

I first got interested in fungi as I wanted to know which ones I could eat. First of all I went to an evening class in Worksop. This was 30 years ago. Here I learnt the basics of outdoor forays as well as the theory.

I then joined a local natural history society, who's leader was interested in fungi and I learnt quite a bit from him. I also found getting good field guide books helped a great deal in the pursuit of knowledge.

Notts Fungi Group

My title is Recorder for the Nottinghamshire Fungi Group (NFG). We number about 30 but numbers are on the rise.

There's a mixture of people who are getting into fungi. I, myself, am more into identifying a range of fungi regardless of whether they are edible or not.

I think many people, when they join the group, are interested in whether the fungi are edible or not but I think that those members that stick with us become interested in a range of fungi.

Edible mushroom

Notts 'shrooms

Nottinghamshire is a good place to go fungi hunting. I don't go far afield for mushrooms... Derbyshire, Leicestershire but no further.

I would say the top five fungi spots in Robin Hood County are Sherwood Forest, Sherwood Pines, Center Parcs (Sherwood), Bestwood Country Park and some of the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust nature reserves.

Edible or not

The classic time to pick fungi is October but any time between mid-August and mid-November is likely to be good depending on the weather. If it's been bone dry don't expect to see too much.

My choice for the best edible mushroom in Nottinghamshire would perhaps be the Cep or Pennybun mushroom. It's a good one to find in the forest areas on sand usually with oak or beech. I like the Oyster fungus as well which grows on logs and wood.

Unedible mushroom

Please remember: Some mushrooms are poisonous. Do not eat wild mushrooms without referring to a guidebook or asking an expert.

Forthcoming public events

Sun 21 Sept, Sherwood Pines Forest Park. The cost is £3 adults and £2.50 children and booking is required on 01623 822447. The event meets at 10:00 at the classroom in Sherwood Pines Forest Park. Bring suitable outdoor clothing and footwear.

Forthcoming NFG events

All forays are from 10:00 until noon. Visitors are welcome but will be expected to pay a subscription on the second attendance.

Sun 5 Oct, Cuckney Hay Wood. GR: SK 553694
Sat 11 Oct, Blidworth. GR: SK 598542
Sat 1 Nov, Bunny Wood. GR: SK 579282
Sat 8 Nov, Colwick Park. GR: SK 613399

More information

For more information about the Notts Fungi Group and future events...