THESE two youngsters were making the most of what experts are calling one of the most beautiful autumns in recent years.

Brothers Fergus Fleming, seven, and Patrick, four, played among the vibrant yellow, gold and orange leaves in Steventon, near Abingdon.

Heavy rainfall in late summer is thought to be partly responsible for the kaleidoscope of colour being seen across Oxfordshire.

Tree experts say August and September were mild and moist, allowing trees to produce plenty of sugar and starch.

The substances are stored in special cells known as carotenoids, which produce the autumn colours.

Anthony Johnson, of Oxford firm Treescape, said: “I have noticed the colours have been very vivid this year. The trees have looked beautiful. Beech trees are a beautiful yellow while the cherry trees are a lovely red.”