Forest adventure course offers a natural high

They have taken the enjoyment of forests in the West Midlands to new heights.

Today the aerial assault course at Woodlands Adventure and Outdoor Learning was open for business after a winter break.

It is one of several adventure rope parks that have been set up to offer people the chance to challenge themselves from high up in the tree canopy.

At the Woodlands site, Tarzan swings, climbing walls and high ropes provide a series of obstacles that climax with the adrenaline rush of a zip wire. The assault course, set in 36 acres of green belt land in Bourne Vale, Aldridge, has proved popular with groups on team building exercises.

The aerial courses have also brought much-needed income into West Midlands forests. Sandwell Valley in West Bromwich has recently submitted £250,000 plans for its own rope adventure park.

The assault course will include swings, climbing nets, a suspension bridge and some timber sculptures, as well as a 164ft zip wire and roundabout.

There is also an adventure facility on Cannock Chase and Wyre Forest, both run by Go Ape, a company with 26 high-rope parks across the country. It is a popular location for company training days and birthday parties.

The high-rope adventure course Closer to the Edge, at Baggeridge Country Park near Sedgley, is run by South Staffordshire Council and includes a zip wire, trapeze and giant ladder.

Woodlands Adventure and Outdoor Learning specialises in providing activities for youngsters aged between seven and 19.

Manager Martin Chapman said: "It is a new way of learning rather than at a desk with pen and paper."

Youngsters can also enjoy a traditional assault course and canoeing. The centre, which also has a climbing tower and step challenges, will be open until autumn.