It isn't exactly the Wild West. But this corner of England is ideal for anyone with the pioneering spirit.

Carved out of a field of maize, the noble face of a Native American chief with full feathered head-dress gazes across the countryside of Staffordshire.

The Western theme is continued with the outline of a giant cactus in the neighbouring field, with the profile of a coyote howling at the full moon alongside. The path patterns have been created at the National Forest Maize Maze site near Burton on Trent.

The maze covers 14 acres, with the head alone measuring nearly 500ft across, and there are three miles of interlocking pathways for visitors to navigate.

Appropriately it was the subject of a 'cleansing' ceremony yesterday by a genuine Native American called Que Vato Cosio Da, a member of the Hopi Nation of the Eagle Clan.

He performed the traditional ritual using eagle feathers and walked the pathways of the maze facing north, south, east and west, saying a traditional blessing to bring good fortune to all who visit.

A new maze is created at the site every year. Last year's was an Aztec pyramid design. Previous patterns have included a Harry Potter-themed phoenix and a dinosaur.

Owner Tom Robinson said: 'At 14 acres it is now one of the largest mazes in Europe.With this year's Wild West theme, visitors must use their tracking skills to solve the clues and find their way through the maze. We look forward to welcoming many visitors.'

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