Take part in an Easter tree-climbing competition

The founders of The Great Big Tree Climbing Company have joined forces with the National Trust to launch a series of tree-climbing events this Easter.

Former estate agent Mark Hawes and former Army captain Nick Cranston hope to lure people away from computer games to Kingston Lacy at Wimborne, where they're offering a series of challenges and the chance to compete in a national tree-climbing competition.

The tree-climbing events include scaling a 200-year-old 85ft Cedar tree using ropes and harnesses, taking a zip-wire ride and doing a ‘leap of faith'—swinging Tarzan-style between trees.

Participants can be timed doing the challenges and thus compete in a national tree-climbing contest, battling other climbers in a UK-wide league table.

Mr Hawes said: ‘Tree-climbing is fast becoming the next big thing—it's completely exhilarating, and it's a great way of spending time outdoors.

‘There's something pretty amazing about climbing a majestic tree in such beautiful surroundings. The views will be incredible, and the physical experience of climbing, swinging and hurtling down on a zip-wire provide a real adrenaline rush.

‘We hope families and individuals will take us up on the challenge. It's great for teambuilding and a good incentive to put down the computer games and enjoy a physical challenge in the fresh air.'

The experience is open to everyone and safety helmets and harnesses will be provided. Admission to Kingston Lacy costs £6 for adults and £3 for children, and a climb, zip wire and big leap costs £12.50, or the big leap only is £6. Climbing events take place 10am-4pm on March 30-31 and April 6-7 and 13-14.

For other ideas on making the most of the fresh air, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/freshair

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