VIISITORS to Croome are being encouraged to get out in the fresh air with a new orienteering trail launching this weekend.

The National Trust parkland near Pershore is hosting members of the Harlequin Orienteering Club on Saturday (July 5) who will be able to share the family-friendly activity which will run all year round.

Katherine Alker, Gardens & Parks Manager, said: “Orienteering is a flexible outdoor pursuit that exercises both the mind and body.

"With beginner, intermediate and advanced trails there’s a course for all abilities in the parkland. It’s a great way to explore parts of Croome you may not have been to before, and as only limited equipment is needed, it’s also a great value for money.

“As we are extending our parkland opening times until 6.30pm during July and August so our visitors are able do something different during the summer evenings."

Visitors can meet the orienteering team on Saturday between 10am and 3pm and will be given instructions on how to read the special map and use a compass.

Harlequins Orienteering Club, which was established in 1968 and based in the West Midlands, hold events across Worcestershire, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Birmingham and the Black Country.

With more than 200 members, the group puts on between 40 and 50 events a year and are always happy to welcome new members.

Colin Spears,of Harlequins Orienteering Club, added: “We are really thrilled about this new course at Croome.

"It will be a permanent feature so if visitors can’t come to the launch event they can still enjoy the course another time."