REDDITCH residents can start their very own adventure at Arrow Valley Park now that a permanent orienteering course has been launched.

Orienteering involves using a map to find a series of checkpoints, and is a way for residents to explore some of the less-visited parts of the park.

Starting near to the Visitor Centre, a total of eight different courses can be taken, ranging from a 1.2km family-friendly taster to a challenging 9km trail run.

There are 30 checkpoints to find in total, plus a wheelchair-accessible course.

Marian White, POC Manager for Harlequins Orienteering Club, said “As lockdown restrictions begin to ease, permanent orienteering courses have proved to be very popular.

"Lots of people have been looking for new types of socially-distanced exercise or family activities, and orienteering is ideal for this.

"Arrow Valley Park is the perfect place to try orienteering for the first time, as there’s a really interesting mix of woods, meadows and open spaces, plus you’re never too far from a main path.

"The course also finishes right next to the Visitor Centre, so you can reward yourself afterwards with an ice-cream from the kiosk, or a refreshing drink from the outdoor bar.”

The team from Harlequins have worked with Rubicon Leisure and Redditch Borough Council to refresh, update and extend the POC in time for summer.

Mike Rouse, deputy leader of Redditch Borough Council and portfolio holder for leisure and culture, said “I’m very impressed with what Harlequins have put together. I can’t wait to take my kids to have a go, as they love visiting the park and this is something a bit different for us to try.

"This is a great example of the council working in partnership with local groups to deliver something of real value to Redditch.”

For more information, search Arrow Valley Orienteering on Facebook. The introductory course map, with details of the first four courses, is available free of charge from the Arrow Valley Visitor Centre kiosk, or can be downloaded from www.britishorienteering.org.uk/poc/arrow_valley_country_park