TO CELEBRATE South Downs National Park becoming only the 11th Dark Skies Reserve in the world, star gazing events are happening from Rogate School to Butser Hill.

Dark-Skies Dan Oakley, Lead Ranger at the South Downs National Park, said: “The star-studded skies above our heads are as valuable as our beautiful rolling landscapes so come along and embrace the darkness.

“With events at 20 locations across the National Park the South Downs Dark Skies Festival is a chance to show-off our skies, share tips on how to enjoy them and explain why they are worth protecting.”

At Rogate School there is a star gazing evening on Saturday, February 11, at 6pm, organised by Rogate School Family and Friends (RSFF).

RSFF spokesman Kate Briggs said: “We have invited the Hampshire Astrological Group from Clanfield Observatory and a representative of the South Downs National Park to do some star gazing with pupils from Rogate and some other local schools.

“The star gazing is weather permitting but we have plenty of activities indoors plus we have been lucky enough to secure some lunar rock samples from the Science and Technology Facilities Council and one of our raffle prizes is a book signed by Buzz Aldrin which was donated by The Science Museum.”

Events are also happening at Clanfield Observatory, Queen Elizabeth Country Park and Butser Ancient Farm.

For details of all the events, and to book a place, visit the website www.southdowns.gov.uk/darkskiesfestival2017 or the website www.southdowns.gov.uk/darkskiesfestival