STEPS are being taken to awaken people to the historic treasures hidden beneath their feet with a series of guided walks.

Worcestershire County Council's archaeological service is running the Walkpast 2002 programme on Sundays during summer and autumn.

Eight walks will visit a variety of sites, including deserted medieval villages, moated manors, Roman roads and ancient woodlands.

Among the walks is one on August 4 in Leigh, which will include the motte and bailey castle and 14th Century tithe barn.

On August 18, the commons at Birtsmorton and Castlemorton will be the location for a walk exploring the distinctive landscape, which dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. On October 27, the woodlands between the Malvern Hills and Alfrick will be the focus of investigation.

Deborah Overton, of the archeological service, said: "A lot of archaeology is preserved in the landscape and what we want to do is to open people's eyes to what can be seen."

The walks are suitable for beginners and those who would like to develop their knowledge further.

Walks further afield include Bretforton (July 7), Wichenford (July 14), Throckmorton (September 1 and October 13), Bentley Paunceford (September 22 and Ribbesford on September 29).

Each walk costs £5 (£3 concs) with a discount for all eight. For details, call 01905 855455 or email doverton@ worcestershire.gov.uk.