THE Forestry Commission is taking the wraps off powerful telescopes to lure stargazers into a popular beauty spot at the weekend.
Hamsterley Forest, near Bishop Auckland, is launching a new season of events with a Star Party on Saturday.
The event will combine a twilight nature trek led by forest rangers with stargazing into the skies above the treetops.
Novices will be able to feast on some spectacular views of Jupiter and Saturn through state-of-the-art telescopes provided by the Sunderland Astronomy Club.
Hamsterley Forest ranger Robin Lofthouse said: "The forest is a fantastic place at night, with the stars glittering free from city light pollution and there is always plenty of wildlife around.
"Glimpsing Saturn's rings for the first time is a really amazing experience and Jupiter too will be a wonderful sight with its banded cloud tops and four moons.
"We'll take novices on a tour of the constellations and lead tours into the outback to meet the forest's nocturnal animals."
The event starts at 7.30pm and costs £3 for adults and £2 concessions. Booking is essential, telephone (01388) 488312.
Stargazers should meet at the forest's visitor centre and take a torch.
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