FALCONRY and ferret racing are just two of the countryside pursuits on offer to take part in this Easter at Hartlebury Castle.

The Worcestershire County Museum, housed in the historic castle, will be hosting a country capers event on Monday, April 6, from 11am until 5pm, with a variety of country themed attractions, entertainment and animals on site for visitors to see.

There will be falconry displays, the chance to meet some Alpacas, heavy horses, ducks and chickens and to watch ferret racing.

Children can join in countryside themed craft activities run by the RSPB and the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, get their face painted, make a beautiful mosaic coaster and follow the Easter trail where youngsters can win a chocolatey prize.

Traditional crafts will also be demonstrated including spinning and weaving, blacksmithing and butter churning, folk dance and singing groups and visitors can also try their hand at archery.

Pippa Ashmore, museum events officer, said: "Easter is always a great time for families to get out and about, and we have such a variety of things for you to do this Easter to keep you thoroughly entertained.

"From beautiful heavy horses to ferret racing, falconry displays, stalls, children's crafts and archery, it all makes for a memorable day out."

Throughout the Easter holidays, from Tuesday, March 31, to Thursday, April 2, and Tuesday, April 7 until Friday, April 10, three countryside themed craft activities plus the Easter trail will be available each day, as well as 1,000 years of history to explore in the museum.

The main event takes place 11am until 5pm and craft activities take place 10.30am to 4.30pm in both weeks except for Good Friday when the museum is closed.

Entry is £5 for adults, £2.50 for children and £13 for a family ticket and on craft activity days an additional £2 per child is payable.

For more information call 01299 250416 or visit museumsworcestershire.org.uk