FREE guided walks on Dartmoor for groups of six people or more are being offered by the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust.

Specially suited for schools, the Bovey Tracey-based charity is offering the walks at Bellever Forest, near Postbridge. The charity ticks lots of National Curriculum boxes and offers a different kind of day out.

Groups can discover how Dartmoor was formed and how Bellever, which sits in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, has changed over the past three million years, through the influence of weathering and man, with a particular emphasis on the Dartmoor pony and its importance to the preservation of the moor for generations to come.

The walks are ideal for families, school groups, special interest groups, local history, conservation and community groups — everyone who enjoys spending some time outdoors, as well as learning and meeting new people.

Any organisation or group can apply, as can families and friends who want a good day out on the moor and exploring at the same time. Tough, waterproof outdoor clothing can be provided.

Sessions are led by an experienced and qualified guide leader, who can tailor the material to learners aged six to 80 plus years.

The guided walks are funded by Natural England's Higher Level Stewardship Scheme and the payment made to the DPHT per walk goes to the charity's work to preserve the environment at Bellever and to keep the true Dartmoor pony on Dartmoor.