ESCAPED lions have been spotted in a field in Nantwich this week - but local families should not be too worried about a close encounter!

'Escape from the Zoo' is this year's theme for Reaseheath College's popular maize maze, which will remain open until the end of the summer holidays.

Maize visitors are having to keep a sharp look out for lifesize models of elephants, tigers and monkeys, while attempting to find the lions' den in the centre of the giant corn crop.

Those who successfully navigate the six-acre puzzle, which takes about two hours to complete, receive a prize.

The college also offers a less strenuous 'mini' maze, maze games, light refreshments and a picnic area.

Last year's challenge, 'Sea Creatures', was visited by thousands of visitors and was one of the most popular tourist attractions of its type in the North-West.

The maze is open every day from 11am to 6pm until September 4.

Family tickets are £10, adults £3.50, children £2.50, under 3s free.

Group and evening bookings are available on request.