SOUTH West Lakes Trust has some exciting practical work experience placements on offer at Burrator Reservoir.

Earlier this year South West Lakes Trust was successful in securing funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and a number of other sources to enable the 'Burrator and Natural Environment Project' to become a reality.

The project aims to preserve the area's rich heritage and make it accessible by improving the visitor experience, overcoming barriers, extending the learning programme and by reaching out to a more diverse range of people.

During the consultation phase in 2011, it was identified by a number of organisations that there was a lack of practical work experience opportunities available locally for their clients, to either support their studies or for those unemployed looking to refresh their skills and get back into work.

To support this, South West Lakes Trust is working with three local contractors to provide a range of unique one or two week practical work experience placements, between now and June 2014.

The placements will be in the areas of construction and restoration work of a 100-year-old iron store, construction of a 1.5km wheelchair accessible trail in the arboretum and consolidation and stabilisation works to two historical ruins to support their preservation.

In return, participants will receive full instruction, support, a reference and an invaluable experience to help with future careers.

For more information or to find out how to get involved, contact Emily on 01822 855700 or email [email protected]">[email protected]