A BIT more than a "yo heave ho" has gone into the creation of an unusual pirate ship at Reaseheath College.

Students have planted a field of maize and cut paths through it to form a maze.

It opens to the public this coming Saturday, July 24 and will challenge young adventurers to seek out its treasure trove every day throughout August.

The Reaseheath crew have teamed up with shipmates from other colleges to plant and shape the maze in the form of a galleon.

They've followed the design of the world's number one maze designer Adrian Fisher.

The ship measures 600ft x 420ft and covers a four and a half acre field. There are only seven maize mazes in the country and this will be the only one in the north. The nearest is at Woburn Abbey.

"Because it's the only one around we are hoping to attract a lot of visitors. The maize will soon grow to about 8ft high so children will be able to lose themselves quite happily for up to two hours. The lucky ones could do it it half an hour. We've included two wooden bridges and a series of special points for navigators to find. At the end of their quest they will discover the pirate's treasure," said Maze Manager Nigel Moores.

Although children of all ages will have fun in the maze there is a serious side to the project.

"Combined skills and technology have gone into it and students on a wide range of courses have been able to contribute and learn from the exercise. Now it is finished the business side of the operation will come into operation and, as we are beginners in this field, there will be a lot to learn there too," added Nigel.

Tackling the maze will cost £3 for adults, £2.50 for children. A family ticket is £10. It will be open from 10am to 6pm and the students have also set up a range of other activities nearby plus refreshment and picnic areas and a souvenir shop.

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