REDDITCH pupils took the first steps on a free public art trail which has been launched to help residents enjoy new and existing artwork in the Winyates and Matchborough areas.

Children from Matchborough First School were the first to try out the new one-and-a-half mile trail, which explores professional artwork installed in bus shelters as part of Redditch Council’s Roadway Arts Project.

Intrepid explorers of the free trail, designed for youngsters aged between seven and 11, will find two exciting new bus shelters on Winyates Way near Ipsley CE RSA Academy.

Artist Alex Godwin worked with children from the academy's wildlife club and eco-committee to create designs for the new shelters which include games and activities to entertain travellers as they wait for their bus.

Trail users can also discover local nature and points of interest while answering quiz questions and activities.

The trail is designed to be completed in around an hour-and-a-half and is accredited by Worcestershire Children’s University, a charity which encourages children to take part in fun educational activities outside school hours.

Matchborough First School was one of the first in the county to join Children’s University, and will be encouraging all of their pupils to complete the trail with their families.

Council leader Bill Hartnett said: “Roadway Arts is all about encouraging people to walk or cycle more by providing a bright and interesting environment, so we’re delighted to be offering this fun family activity in time for half term.”

Copies of the trail are available free-of-charge from the Palace Theatre and Redditch Council’s Winyates Customer Service Centre, or can be downloaded from redditchbc.gov.uk/roadwayarts.