The City Commons rangers, who help to care for large areas of open space in the south of the borough, are well-respected as fun guys to deal with.

Fungi forays: City Commons guided walks are always popular and book up quickly

And over the next few weeks, they will demonstrate as much with a series of autumnal guided walks looking at the fungi emerging at Coulsdon Common, Riddlesdown and Farthing Down.

Fungi are starting to take centre stage in our woods and grasslands as summer transitions into autumn. Toadstools are pushing up through the soil, fallen logs sprouting bracket fungi, and rings of mushrooms are forming in the grass.

In the City Commons latest newsletter, they explain: “Fungi play a vital role in nature. Many species live hidden underground, breaking down dead wood and leaf litter to recycle nutrients back into the soil.

“Others form close partnerships with trees, helping them absorb water and minerals in exchange for sugars. Without fungi, woodlands and grasslands simply couldn’t thrive.”

And they appeal to locals and walkers: “It’s important to leave fungi in place on the Commons, both for everyone to enjoy and to provide a vital food source for animals.”

The City Commons fungi forays are to be led by expert Jane McLauchlin. “These guided walks are a fantastic chance to discover more about the fungi around us and explore the hidden world beneath the trees.”

The events take place at Coulsdon Common on Friday October 17 from 10am-12pm; at Riddlesdown on Sunday, November 9, 10am-12pm; and on Farthing Downs on Sunday  November 16, also 10am-12pm.

Places fill up fast, so be sure to book early: details can be found by clicking here.

There are also volunteer work days across the City Commons estate, with the following dates coming up:

• Kenley Common: Tuesday September 23, 10am-3pm
• Farthing Downs: Thursday September 25, 10am-3pm
• Coulsdon Common: Thursday October 2, 10am-3pm
• Riddlesdown: Thursday October 9, 10am-3pm

• To register as a volunteer with City Commons, visit their website by clicking here

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