A Big Tree Climb event due to take place at Southwick Country Park on Wednesday was cancelled after organisers found a bat nesting in the tree.

It is believed that the creature is a Natterer's bat which is a protected species.

Wiltshire Council, who oversee the park, cancelled this week’s climb event and another, due to take place on August 28, to protect the bat’s habitat.

A council spokesperson said: “This is really exciting for those involved with Southwick Country Park.

"We understand it will be disappointing to those who were looking forward to the climbs, but we hope everyone is pleased of the possibility of this species roosting locally.”