Survival skills on offer at children's weekend in woodland wilderness

But Forestry Commission ranger Vince Lennox is offering parents and their children a chance to learn bushcraft and survival skills during a weekend out in a woodland wilderness.

The Commission is opening up the 185-acre Pleasley Park, near

Shirebrook, Derbyshire, in mid-August for the overnight course, which is suitable for over-eights.

During the stay, those taking part will learn how to build their own shelter, forage for food and identify animal tracks as well as discovering the secret of making fire safely.

Mr Lennox said: "We have staged similar day-time bushcraft sessions for many years and it has been pretty obvious that the adults are just as keen as the children. So this event is the perfect answer and a chance to learn rustic skills while spending a night under the stars. It's a tremendous confidence booster being able to cope in the wild, and it's also a wonderful way to escape the rat race."

The course costs 15 per person, including an evening meal and breakfast cooked over a campfire. To book a place call the Forestry Commission on 01623 822447.