Four lucky Express & Star readers are being offered the opportunity of a lifetime – to visit the stunning mines hidden beneath Dudley.

A competition is being launched today to offer two pairs of Golden Tickets to readers who want to explore the subterranean world, which will be opened as a tourist attraction if the Black Country is awarded £50 million next week.

Last mined 200 years ago, the canals and caverns under the Wrens Nest have been closed off to the public.

Graham Worton, keeper of geology at Dudley Council, said: “Just a handful of engineers, geologists and mining experts have explored this subterranean world of canals and caverns that lies 250ft below ground.

“The mine is currently open for just a few days for survey work to be carried out before it is sealed again – possibly forever if the Black Country is not successful in a TV vote next week.

“The winners will be accompanied by mine specialists and experts who will relay the story and the geology of this unique and internationally important site.”

The site is governed by mining regulations, and the winners will be required to sign a health and safety regulations form and undergo a safety briefing.

While helmets, high-visibility jackets and other safety equipment will be provided, the winners must wear suitable footwear, such as walking boots.

Ordinary shoes or training shoes are not appropriate.

They can expect to be underground for about one hour.

To have a chance of winning a pair of these Gold Tickets say why you deserve to see the caverns and remember to include your name address and daytime telephone number.

* Email newsdesk@expressandstar.co.uk or send a letter to Caves Competition, Express & Star, 51-53 Queen Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1ES.

* Don’t forget, all entries have to be with us by midday on Monday.

* You must be available between 10am and 2pm on Thursday December 6 and must be aged 16-years-old and over.

* You must also be in good health, not suffer from claustrophobia and be able to descend in a ‘bullet capsule’ lift.