SCIENCE buffs are being given the chance to take part in a summer treasure hunt – with a hi-tech twist.

The activity is called geocaching, and gives people of all ages the chance to explore the wildlife of Oxford University’s Harcourt Arboretum, in Nuneham Courtenay, using a GPS unit to find hidden boxes.

The boxes – called geocaches – contain fun, outdoor physics activities that will see treasure hunters deciphering secret messages, measuring the sun’s UV index and finding out about trees.

Alison Blowers took her two sons, Isaac, six, and Joel, eight.

She said: “Everyone had a good time and really enjoyed finding the clues. It was a beautiful sunny day and everyone was happy.”

Both Isaac and Joel said the thing they most enjoyed about the day was finding the boxes.

Two trails are running throughout the summer holidays, one for families with children aged six to 11 and one for older children or adults.

The trails are free with entry to the arboretum – which is free for under-18s but costs £3.50 for adults. For more information, visit physics.org