A free training course is offering people with a passion for their local area the skills they need to become walk leaders.

Gravesham council is working in partnership with the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Experience programme to offer the training to individuals, community groups and tourism businesses interested in leading outdoor tours and walks.

The walk-leader training programme aims to equip people with the skills to safely plan and lead their own outdoor walking experiences to show off the best parts of Gravesham to visitors and residents.

Starting on November 10, the training is for individuals interested in becoming outdoor guides, and local businesses that would like to offer walking tours.

Cllr Shane Mochrie-Cox, Gravesham council’s cabinet member for Community and Leisure, said: “Nearly a quarter of the borough lies within the Kent Downs AONB, which is a nationally recognised and protected landscape with miles of public foot and cycle paths winding through ancient woodland, vineyards and farms, expansive countryside and historic villages such as Luddesdown and Cobham.

“We want more people to get to explore and enjoy our scenery, wildlife, culture, heritage and – of course – local food and drink, so we’re giving people the skills to promote everything the district has to offer by creating their own walks and tours.”

Rebecca Rees, business and tourism manager for the Kent Downs AONB said: “As so many people flock to Kent to experience the incredible countryside, providing a walking tour can be a great additional offer for visitors, increasing their length of stay and giving more reasons to visit as well as generating a new source of income.

“It could be a literary tour of Dickens’ favourite hot spots, a sunrise walk or showing visitors the wildlife and nature of the area. If you don’t know where to begin, this training will give you the tools you need to plan the perfect experience.”

The training will comprise a two hour webinar on November 10, followed up by a practical outdoor session on November 28.

The training is free but spaces are limited.

You can sign up at kentdowns.org.uk/business-resources/gravesham-outdoor-tour-training/

To find out more visit the website or contact Rebecca Rees at rebecca.rees@kentdowns.org.uk for more information.

Anyone interested in joining the training should register by November 7.