GO FOR gold - that's the Forestry Commission's top rating for spectacular autumn colours in English woodland.

And Bolderwood in the New Forest has attained gold status this week, so Forest rangers are advising everyone to dig out the walking boots and feast the eyes on those gleaming leaves!

Rangers across the county are monitoring the season's richest russet hotspots for the FC's regularly-updated autumn colours website, - www.forestry.gov.uk /autumn_colours

They have also put together an information pack, available by phoning 0131 314 6322.

Commission spokeswoman Bridgette Hall said: "The good thing about the arrival of cold weather is it triggers a dazzling display of colour on the trees.

"The New Forest is stunning at the moment, with towering gold-hued beech trees lining the old coaching route at Bolderwood.

"The autumn colours across the region will be at their peak over the next couple of weeks - stretching well into November if the winds aren't too strong.

"It's one of the best times of the year to enjoy the woods,'' she added.