Arboretum prepares to welcome thousands for summer programme
The National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire, is preparing to welcome thousands of families, following the launch of the 150-acre garden and woodland site 's summer activity programme.
As part of the new summer programme, a pair of new intriguing outdoor escape challenges have been launched, inviting visitors to embark on a thrilling crime-cracking adventure, working as a team to try and foil a bank robbery.
As they work to crack a series of mind-bending puzzles, teams will visit some of the many memorials connected to the emergency services, including the new UK Police Memorial which was dedicated last week.
Operation Kingpin ( £12 per team) is designed for families (ages 8+) and takes around two hours to complete. Meanwhile, experienced puzzle crackers can take on Operation Vault ( £15 per team) which takes two to three hours to complete.
“This summer we have once again created a selection of fun and engaging activities for all ages, ” said Chris Ansell, head of Participation and Learning at the National Memorial Arboretum.
He added: “We 've worked hard to find new ways to shine a spotlight on the tireless efforts made by Our Everyday Heroes during the pandemic and the incredible work they do in our communities all year round. ”
“Our exciting outdoor escape challenges were incredibly popular last summer and this year we 're pleased to take the concept to another level with a pair of exciting new adventures.
“Your mental skills will be put to the test as you venture around our 150-acre site, seeking answers to a series of puzzles that will help you work with the police to stop a nefarious gang of bank robbers from executing a successful heist. ”
The new free Our Everyday Heroes exhibition, in the Remembrance Centre explores the work of the emergency services, volunteer organisations and the Armed Forces in their roles of protecting the public and safeguarding people from harm, particularly throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
It includes sections on the Fire Services, Police, NHS, volunteer organisations, the Armed Forces, emergency vehicles and animal support, including a new UK police memorial dedicated by the Prince of Wales last week.
The hugely popular free Stick Man activity trail will continue to be available for the very youngest visitors to enjoy, in addition to both Children 's Play Areas..
This weekend (7 and 8 August), the hugely popular Summer Proms evenings will return to the Arboretum.
An audience of up to 3,000 people will hear a selection of toe-tapping proms favourites performed by the Band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and soprano Emily Haig, concluding with a firework finale.
Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Arboretum 's website: https://www.thenma.org.uk/what's-on/events-exhibitions-and-talks/events/summer-proms
Pictured: The new police memorial at the Arboretum