15 jobs created with opening of tree-top adventure centre (From Worcester News)

15 jobs created with opening of tree-top adventure centre

3:00am Monday 20th April 2009 in

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A NEW high-wire adventure centre for thrill-seekers has been launched in Worcestershire creating 15 new jobs.

Go Ape was opened by members of Kidderminster Harriers football team, who cut a ribbon and then set off to swing through the trees on the course 40ft above the forest floor.

Harriers’ manager Mark Yates said: “Clearly, Go Ape is going to give many people a chance to experience something exciting and a bit different. We’re delighted to be helping out in any way we can and we’re looking forward to seeing it in action in the community.”

Go Ape was originally established in 2002 by husband and wife team Tristram and Rebecca Mayhew.

Six years on, courses are now located in 17 forests across Britain, stretching from the south coast to Scottish highlands.

Go Ape at Wyre Forest is one of four new courses for 2009.

The course is split into five sections and linked together by natural footpaths. Each section begins with a rope ladder climb into the treetops, where an assortment of exciting obstacles and Tarzan swings lead to a spectacular zip slide back down to the forest floor.

The course is set in a beautiful location, so whatever the weather, customers have the freedom to experience about three hours of adrenalin-fuelled fun and adventure with family, friends and colleagues.

Mr Mayhew said: “The inspiration for creating Go Ape came from a family holiday to France when we came across a similar high-wire course deep in the Auvergne National Forest.

“We watched a family swinging through the tree canopy and – sure the teenage kids were having a grand time of it – but it was the look of ‘we haven’t had this much fun in years’ on their parents’ faces that convinced us we should be doing this in the UK.”