CHILDREN and families will have the chance to get active whilst exploring the Malvern Hills thanks to the launch of a fun new treasure hunt.

Letterboxing is an orienteering challenge where participants use a notebook with clues including a free map to find 25 rubber stamps hidden in letterboxes across the hills.

The stamps have been especially designed by local children aged five to 13 as part of a competition.

Once all 25 stamps have been found, explorers will be able to collect a 25 Club Badge from Malvern Tourist Information Centre in Church Street.

To take part in the Letterboxing challenge, visit the TIC to buy a pack for just £3 which includes a clue sheet, notebook, badge and map.

These packs will be available from 10.30am on Saturday, May 26, and then throughout the year.

The challenge has been created by Malvern Hills District Council in partnership with Malvern Hills Trust and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as a way of encouraging children and families to get outdoors and be active.

Cllr David Watkins, portfolio holder for housing and communities on Malvern Hills District Council, said: “This is a really fun way of getting active, having fun and exploring the beautiful Malvern Hills. I’d urge people to take on the challenge and see if they can crack the clues and find all 25 stamps.”

Beck Baker, community and conservation officer at Malvern Hills Trust, said: “We’re really excited to see children and families getting out exploring the landscape of the Malvern Hills this spring and summer. Alongside the excitement of finding the stamps, there are also opportunities to learn more about the wildlife, history and different people that come to enjoy this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”

Visit malvernhills.gov.uk/letterboxing for more information.