Naturalists, TV presenters and authors are backing The Wildlife Trusts’ national nature challenge to do something ‘wild’ every day during June.

TV presenter Gillian Burke, Olympian Alex Gregory, and other celebrities have put their weight behind the campaign to reconnect people with wildlife in a fun and inspirational way.

54,500 people, schools and workplaces have signed up to 30 Days Wild which starts on Friday June 1st. Last year an estimated 250,000 took part.

New research shows that 30 Days Wild is unique in improving people’s perception of beauty in nature, and that noticing natural beauty makes people happier and want to care for it.

Gillian Burke,TV presenter, biologist and Springwatch presenter, said: “Try 30 Random Acts of Wildness in 30 Days! I’d love people to connect with the wildlife around them – I think lots of people don’t know how to do it… this is the perfect way to start and discover how you can make a difference. Where will your wild adventure take you? I might dance in a downpour!”

30 Days Wild encourages people to notice nature on their doorsteps every single day and gives them a multitude of exciting and fun ways of doing it. Research shows taking part in 30 Days Wild improves health and happiness and encourages people to do something to help wildlife.

Alex Gregory double Olympic champion and multiple world champion rower said: “It's all too easy to fall into the habit of walking into the house and shutting the door. There are too many things indoors that are attractive to our children and us adults alike, mostly revolving around a screen. I think technology is great, I love it, as long as there is something else.

"Often the best memories are made quickly for free! This is what the outdoors gives us. Taking the first step outside is the biggest challenge, after that, with a willing mind and a spot of enthusiasm, bonding moments and lasting memories can easily be made together. What is it that we remember from our childhoods? That afternoon watching TV? Or the time mum climbed a tree with us after school?”

“As a family our free time is spent outdoors, exploring, investigating and being active. I want my children to notice things. I believe if they start to notice things in the natural world they become interested, when they become interested, they start to care and when a generation begins to really care, that's when we see a change.”

New research shows that 30 Days Wild is unique in improving people’s perception of beauty in nature, and that noticing natural beauty makes people happier and want to care for it.

Dr Miles Richardson, director of psychology at University of Derby explained: “Tuning-in to the everyday beauty of nature becomes part of a journey which connects us more deeply to the natural world. As people’s appreciation of natural beauty increases, so does their happiness. We respond to beauty – it restores us and balances our emotions. This, in turn, encourages people to do more to help wildlife and take action for nature.”