A DRYSTONE walling training company based in the Saddleworth village of Uppermill is offering places on its new social inclusion project.

Dog With a Bone is offering 10 places to people aged above 50 who want to learn how to build a drystone wall as an avenue to mindfulness and better mental health.

Backed by Age UK, Dog With a Bone specialises in socially inclusive outdoor courses with wellbeing benefits.

Founder John Matthews said: “This initiative is to reach out to older people who would not normally be able to afford such a course.

“We will teach the basics of how to build a drystone wall, and little of the history of the craft, but we also teach simple ways of learning how to relax and enjoy being in the moment in the countryside.”

John said the organisation was particularly interested in reaching out to isolated people.

He went on to say it was also bidding for funding to maintain and expand its work in the community.

John added: “To be able to give the course to those that will benefit most, for those that cannot afford such an opportunity, we need proper funding and this is the start of that process.

“We have already had backing from Tameside and Glossop MIND who helped run a pilot course.

“I could see the potential for teaching drystone walling, an activity that requires focus, concentration and an ability to see things through, to be able to help those suffering from anxiety, stress or loneliness.

Anyone interested in joining the course can contact Dog With a Bone directly on 0161 234 0099 or through Age UK Oldham on 0161 633 0213.