At the start of the year, the Tamar Valley AONB team were seeking volunteers to learn new skills and become a Heritage Guide for the area.

Six months on and the area now has eight fully fledged Heritage Guides, ready to lead walks and impart their knowledge of the Tamar Valley to groups, clubs and organisations.

The free nine-week course, led by local Blue Badge Guide, Chrissie Le Marchant, covered presentation skills, organising and running events, leading guided walks and research techniques. It was organised as part of the Heritage Lottery funded Helping Hands for Heritage project.

The first two free walks, looking at the mining history and wildlife of Devon Great Consols, will be led by Ann Marcer on Saturday, August13, 2pm – 4pm along the Mineral Railway trail to Devon Great Consols and back along the Wheal Josiah trail.

On Wednesday, August 17, 10am – 1pm, there’s a walk along the Mineral Railway trail to Devon Great Consols and back along the Wheal Josiah and Bedford United trails.

For both walks, meet at the Tamar Trails Centre, near Gulworthy. £2 required for parking.

If you would like one of the Heritage Guides to lead a walk for your family, local group or club, call 01822 835030, [email protected] (Tamar Valley AONB).