Call of the wild in Kiveton woods!

YOUNGSTERS are being invited to answer the call of the wild and learn the kind of skills that propelled Ray Mears and Bear Grylls to stardom.

Shelter-making and foraging skills will be among the activities at a free bushcraft event which is being hosted by the Forestry Commission at Kiveton Park’s 53 hectare Kiveton Community Wood on Saturday, September 11.

The event hopes to see young people gazing into a camp fire rather than a computer screen and swapping the front room for the forest canopy as experts unlock the secrets to survival in the wilderness.

Forestry Commission ranger, Dougie MacTaggart, will show those who sign up for the taster course how to construct a waterproof shelter from branches and brash, while revealing the key to safe fire lighting, foraging for wild foods and cooking on an open fire.

He said: “Bushcraft is the ultimate escape from the stresses of life.

“It’s surprising what you can do with a few raw materials and bit of know how.

“Learning to live with nature is not only great fun, but it’s also a big confidence booster.”

The event runs between 10am and 2pm and meets at Hard Lane car park, Kiveton Park. Booking is essential and can be carried out by contacting the Forestry Commission on 01302 820278.

Youngsters under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.