NOT-for-profit drystone walling training company Dog with a Bone has been boosted by a donation of clobber from outdoor clothing specialist Regatta as well as grant funding from Action Oldham.

Regatta chairman and chief executive Keith Black has provided waterproof clothing, boots and gloves for people attending courses designed to develop new skills as well as improve individual mental wellbeing.

A successful pilot course ran during the summer in conjunction the Tameside, Oldham and Glossop branch of mental health charity MIND.

John Matthews, who runs Dog with a Bone, said: “The contributions from both Regatta and Action Oldham are amazing.

“The clothing will help people who do not have the resources to buy outdoor clothing to participate in an activity which has been proven to improve wellbeing and mental health.”

Claire Taylor from Action Oldham said: “We are thrilled to support this project. Our grants give vital support to smaller local groups who enhance health and wellbeing in our communities.

“It’s great to be able to support local innovation such as this which ties in ancient craft with modern approaches. We live in a beautiful place and this encourages people to get outside. When people get outside their perspective changes.

“When we are in green spaces we are programmed to relax, unlike being in a built up area. This project excited us very much.”

Anyone interested in undertaking a Dog with a Bone course must apply via a club, society, church or other organisation.

Dog with a Bone is also supported by Age UK, which is currently offering nine places for people over 50 years old keen to develop their skills and experience the magic of bringing together physical activity and mindfulness whilst working in nature.

Some 40 courses are being released initially on Sunday October 21. Club, societies, churches or other organisations will need to confirm their eligibility to attend.

Anyone interested should contact: john@big-pic.co.uk confirming your eligibility in no more than 200 words.

Anyone applying for the AGE UK over 50 year old places must first e-mail Martin Morris at AGE UK, Martin.Morris@actiontogether.org.uk explaining where you are from and why you are eligible for a place.

The dates for the first tranche of courses are: November 24, 2019; March 23, 2019; April 27, 2019.