Art lovers at beauty spot

Thousands of art lovers are expected to flock to a beauty spot for an annual extravaganza.

The Route to Health Arts Festival will reveal the latest creations added to the award-winning arts trail near Birches Valley, on Cannock Chase.

Visitors will witness chainsaw carvers, green artists and willow weavers in action and be invited to have a go at creating their own mini-masterpiece from 11am-3pm on Sunday, October 7.

Jason Maclean, spokesman for Forestry Commission urged people to go along.

He said: "The Route to Health festival has become one of the most popular dates on the forest calendar.

"It's wonderful to see how the trail has been brought to life by local people working together to help the environment and promote healthy living.

"And it's a great opportunity to take a walk along the trail and enjoy art and exercise at the same time."

The celebrations will begin on Friday, October 5, when up to 10 artists will work with members of a local community group to create some new pieces to display along the route.

On Saturday, the artists will put the finishing touches to the creations so they are at their best for the public viewing on Sunday.

Mr McLean added: "Each of the colourful artworks along the one-mile route is themed around health issues. They are designed to generate interest in areas such as exercise, relaxation, mental health and a healthy heart and encourage more people to use the woodland as a natural green gym.

"For example, one set of artworks explores the links between smoking and health and promotes activities such as a cycling to help people quit.

"The often weird and wonderful creations were all made by local volunteers and have proved such a hit that thousands of people come to enjoy the trail each season."

Since opening five years ago, visitor numbers to the trail have increased from 5,000 a year to more than 50,000.

South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust, Cannock Chase Council and the Forestry Commission are the three partners behind it. The project has also received cash support from the Arts Council and Countryside Agency.