FOR Gwent walkers who fancy a spring saunter, the 2004 Wye Valley season officially opens this weekend.

The beautiful Forest of Dean, which covers 35 square miles spanning the Rivers Wye and Severn between England and Wales, is known as the Queen of Britain's Forests.

It is now one of England's largest productive forests and is home to a wide variety of wildlife.

This Sunday sees the start of the Forestry Commission's spring and summer programme.

Walkers will have the opportunity to see the forest in early spring with a guided walk around the Sculpture Trail.

The price of the walk is £8.50, including crumpets at Beechenhurst Lodge, and booking is advisable by calling 01594 529358.

Over the coming months the Forestry Commission has put on scores of events for those with a taste for the great outdoors.

A series of waymarked walks from one km up to long-distance paths can be enjoyed in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.

The Forestry Commission provides trails to suit all abilities, from easy-going walks to more taxing forest trails that require stout footwear and have hills and stiles.

Cycling, orienteering and the five-km Adidas running trail at Mallards Park Lake are all available in the area.

Nature lovers can catch some of the country's best birdwatching from the Nagshead Nature Reserve and Symonds Yat Rock peregrines projects, which are all run in conjunction with the RSPB.

New Fancy viewpoint is a popular spot to see goshawk and other raptors.

Fishing is also available by purchasing day permits.

Regular visitors to the Forest of Dean can save money by purchasing annual car-park permits, which can be used in any of the Forestry Commission car parks.

The permits are available at Beechenhurst Lodge, Symonds Yat, Mallards Pike, the Cycle Centre and Bank House, Coleford.

The loft at Beechenhurst is available for group bookings by calling 01594 833057.

Events from wedding receptions, charity fundraisers and school trips can be organised by calling the same number.

The forest also has three linked camp sites. For more information call 01594 833057 or visit the website www.forestofdean.gov.uk