The special international exchange visit brought Danish Rangers Lisa Tornberg and Camilla Lindberg from the Pederstrup School Service in Ballerup, Denmark, to Calderglen Country Park for a day of environmental education and cultural connection.

One of the highlights of the day was a tree-planting session, where children helped establish a new woodland area within the park.

Hosted by South Lanarkshire’s Countryside Ranger Service, the visit marked a continuation of the long-standing twinning between East Kilbride and Ballerup, established in 1965.

The exchange aims to strengthen ties between the two communities and share best practices in outdoor learning and conservation.

During their visit, Camilla and Lisa joined local Countryside Rangers Abi Boyd and Chris McGinley, in delivering engaging nature-based activities for children from St Hilary’s Forest School group and Mount Cameron Nursery.

The Danish rangers were delighted to see that both Ballerup and East Kilbride carry out very similar activities to foster a deeper understanding of the natural environment.

The young learners explored Calderglen Zoo and took part in hands-on conservation efforts, learning about native wildlife and the importance of biodiversity with Calderglen Zookeepers Heather Ryce and Chris Brown.

Councillor Norman Rae, the Chair of the council’s Climate and Sustainability Committee, said: “This initiative not only supports local biodiversity but also empowers the next generation to take an active role in protecting their environment.

“It’s inspiring to see how engaged and curious the children were. Planting trees is a simple but powerful way to make a lasting impact, and they’ve done a fantastic job.”

As East Kilbride continues to foster international friendships and environmental stewardship, the Ranger exchange stands as a testament to what communities can achieve when they work together for a greener future.