ON a freezing and frosty evening, the Young Rangers went prepared, all wrapped up for their night-time adventure though Kidderminster's Hurcott Pool and Woods nature reserve.

Armed with torches to highlight the twinkling frost, they set off.

Firstly, to warm up, they took a brisk walk through the forest, listening as they went for any sounds of wildlife that may be out that night.

Pausing for a short while in the clearing near to the lake, a telescope was set up to see the night sky.

Unfortunately, because of the thick fog, only one planet was visible, however, this was a good view of Mars, and each Young Ranger took a look at the "Red Planet".

After the observation of the night sky, the Young Rangers continued onwards, for a 20-minute walk into the undergrowth, but not a whisper of any animals or owls was heard on that cold, still and frosty night.

The Rangers twisted a "spider's thread" (actually a cotton strand) throughout the trees into the pitch black of what looked like a haunted wood.

Separated into pairs, the youngsters had to wait their turn to brave it along the thin lifeline of cotton, which was the only thing keeping them on the right track to get out of the woods.

It was not too easy, as the Young Rangers had to carefully make their way over logs, through bushes, under fallen trees, and generally through the toughest, darkest undergrowth Hurcott had to offer.

Emerging on the other side, the "safe" ones sat quietly awaiting the arrival of the others, keeping very quiet so as not to give away their location.

All made it through without feeling the need to turn their torches on.

The Young Rangers Club is run as a partnership between Wyre Forest District Council Ranger Service and Shuttle/Times and News.

The club usually runs every other Sunday, and is suitable for eight to 14-year-olds. Anyone interested in becoming a Young Ranger is asked to telephone the office on 01562 732971.