Mansfield Museum is marking Valentine’s Day with special storytelling sessions to coinicide with its Space and science theme for February.

On Tuesday 14th, local author Adrian Beeden will give readings of his children’s book, Alfred In Space, and take part in drawing exercises linked to the book’s tortoise at 10.30am, 11.15am, and 12noon.

Other half-term events include robotics workshops on Wednesday 15th, from 10am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm. Places are free but must be booked in advance by emailing [email protected].

Thursday 16th is Lego day and on Friday 17th a team from Sherwood Observatory will lead star and space-themed activities and experiments.

The museum’s Mansfield Stargazers project with the observatory runs until 20th February when visitors are asked to look up at the ‘Dark Skies’ and record what they see.

To link in with the Festival of Science and Curiosity, many events will be space and science-themed, including the under-5s Stay and Play session on Friday 10th, from 12.30pm to 2pm, which includes investigations for young children to get involved in.

During half term there is a HOME: Zero interactive exhibition, giving young people the chance to learn about climate change and make a pledge to help. Places are free but must be booked in advance at www.lakesidearts.org.uk/children-and-families/event/5753/home-zero.html?Action=Cookie

At the Stay and Play session for under-5s on Friday 24th, from 12.30pm to 2pm, there will be a storytelling theme. Crafts on the day include making a puppet of a character from a well-known fairytale. There is a suggested donation of £1.50 for the craft activities. Author Adrian Beeden will also be reading his stories at 12.30pm, 1pm and 1.30pm.

From 25th February to 25th March Mansfield photographer Carrie Austin is hosting a mental health-themed photography exhibition. Carrie will be working with local people and businesses to run mental health and wellbeing talks and support events.