AT the start of the year, the Tamar Valley AONB team was seeking volunteers to learn new skills and become a heritage guide for the area — six months later the area now has eight fully-fledged 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.

Sam Barnes, Helping Hands for Heritage project officer for the AONB, said: ‘Our new heritage guides are ambassadors for the Tamar Valley area and I would like to extend my thanks to each guide for committing their time over the nine weeks and for their enthusiasm as we start to organise walks and talks.’

The first walk, led by Ann Marcer, will take place on Saturday, August 13 from 2pm to 4pm, along the Mineral Railway trail to Devon Great Consols and back along the Wheal Josiah trail. Find out more about the mining history of this important part of the Tamar Valley AONB landscape with a few wildlife facts thrown in along the way. There are some steep, short sections but level, wide pathways. Suitable for all ages.

On Wednesday, August 17, from 10am to 1pm, participants can walk along the Mineral Railway trail to Devon Great Consols and back along the Wheal Josiah and Bedford United trails. Find out about the mining history of this important part of the Tamar Valley AONB landscape, with great views over the River Tamar. There will be some steep sections but wide pathways for most of the route. However, the Bedford Trail has steps, steep climbs and narrow pathways and is more suited to experienced walkers.

The walks are free and anyone who wants to attend should meet at the Tamar Trails Centre, Gulworthy. Wear suitable footwear and dress for the weather.

If you would like a heritage guide to lead a walk for your family, local group or club, contact 01822 835030 or email [email protected]