Applications are open for the next Young Ranger programme at Rutland Water.

Young people between the ages of 16 and 21 now have the opportunity to join conservation projects, located around Rutland Water.

The country's largest manmade reservoir, Rutland Water is set in the heart of the Rutland countryside and provides a space for wildlife and the local community to exist in harmony.

Conservation work takes place around Rutland Water all year round. Image credit: Nub News.

Set around beautiful Rutland Water and covering 4,200 acres of open countryside, the park offers everything from walking and cycling to fishing and watersports. There is also the fantastic nature reserve, managed by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and home to the Rutland Osprey Project.

Rutland Water's ospreys attract visitors from across the country, as well as support from local residents. Earlier this year, one local child, Joshua Dell, completed a walk around Rutland Water for the 'Raptors of Rutland' or the Rutland Ospreys and raised over £1,500 for the cause.

Joshua walked around Rutland Water earlier this year. Image credit: Samantha Dell.

Sadly, the osprey young ambassador scheme was suspended in March of this year following a funding cut.

However, the Young Ranger programme is thriving, and is now open to local youngsters who wish to get involved in conservation work around the water.

If you're between 16 and 21 and want to get involved in exciting conservation projects like laying hedgerows, planting trees and building bug hotels, then send the team an email at [email protected].

Head to the Rutland Water website to find out how you can join the Young Ranger programme. Image credit: Nub News.

Closing date for applications is Sunday 13 August.

Find out more on Facebook or the Rutland Water website.

Alternatively, click here to read about a local author who recently published a book about the 'Rutland Panther' and his journey around the iconic reservoir.