VISITORS to Guisborough forest learned there was more to the countryside larder than just brambles and bilberries yesterday.

Sixteen people joined countryside rangers in a trek at Guisborough Forest and Walkway, near Pinchinthorpe, to collect nature's harvest - and then turned their attention at trying some recipes.

Countryside ranger Deborah Jefferson, who took part in the event organised by the Forestry Commission's ranger Cath Brason, said: "It was a lovely day and everyone really enjoyed themselves.

"We collected different plants including dandelion leaves, chickweed, and red clover leaves and made a raspberry vinegar and sesame seed dressing. Then we made nettle soup, which was surprisingly delicious and some sloes to make gin."

Participants had the chance to try ready-made gin and strawberry wine as well as chutneys and cordial made from elderberries and brambles.

"I think people were really surprised at how many things you can actually eat from the forest," said Ms Brason.

For more information about future events at the Guisborough Forest and Walkway, call (01287) 631132.