A free 12-week course for people who have had time out of work due to having a long term physical or mental health condition will be launched in Rutland this autumn.

Active Rutland will be 'hanging out' in nature over the course doing a variety of things like gardening, crafting, working in woodlands, enjoying nature walks, drinking tea, connecting with others and perhaps going on some micro adventures!

They say "It's going to be a bit like forest school for adults!!"

A couple taster sessions will be run at Growers Row, the shared garden at the Rutland Showground in Oakham on Thursday September 30 from 9.30am to 11.30am and on Thursday October 14 from 9.30am to 11.30am.

Those who would like to attend are asked to email Rob Lewin, Active Rutland Assistant at [email protected]

There is no commitment to continue after the taster session.

Coun Lucy Stephenson, Rutland County Council's Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "Initiatives like these Strength in Nature courses are a great example of just how much is happening in Rutland for people of all ages, abilities and interests.

"I'm particularly pleased to hear how they'll be helping people to improve their mental health as well as their physical wellbeing, by getting together with others, enjoying the benefits of being outdoors, and seeing some more of our county's very special natural environment."