
People can build up their dry stone walling skills by taking part in a special course.
Anyone interested in learning the ancient countryside technique can book on to the two-day introductory course, which is being held at the Outwoods, Loughborough on 22 and 23 September between 10am and 4pm.
The course, which is supported by Leicestershire County Council in partnership with Blaby District Council, Charnwood Borough Council and Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, allows beginners to find out more about this traditional craft.
As well as learning how to recognise the different types of stone and their role within the building process, residents will have the chance to strip down and repair a section of tumbledown wall, rebuilding it back to its original state using different types of stone.
Dry stone walls are an important part of the local landscape and are traditional field boundaries in this part of the country. They provide an important habitat for wildlife, providing shelter all year round for small animals such as field mice as well as insects.
Anyone is welcome to attend the course, with discounts being offered to those who live in a partnership area, which covers Blaby, Charnwood and Hinckley and Bosworth, as well as those on job seekers allowance.
Booking is essential, so to ensure a spot on any of these courses please contact email environmentteam@leics.gov.uk.
*partnership discount applies to anyone living in Blaby, Charnwood or Hinckley and Bosworth district.