Mountain rescuers will teach navigation skills. Photo: Kirkby Stephen MRT

Mountain rescue experts are offering walkers the chance to learn navigation and hill skills with them.

Kirkby Stephen Mountain Rescue Team is also throwing open its doors so members of the public can see how it operates.

The Cumbrian volunteer team is holding an open day at its Christian Head base in the town on Saturday 19 April and Sunday 20 April.

Younger visitors will be able to try a climbing wall under the team’s supervision, and play on a bouncy castle.

The Upper Eden Community First Responder Team will provide tea, cakes and bacon sandwiches in the base, with all proceeds being shared between the mountain rescue and first responder teams.

A Kirkby Stephen MRT spokesperson said: “The weekend also offers the opportunity to spend a day with mountain rescue team members brushing up on those all important hill navigation skills.

“Participants on these single day courses will be able to learn the core map reading and compass techniques needed to venture safely onto the fells.

“The morning will be spent mastering the key skills in and around the town and the afternoon putting them into practice on a local fell, all in small groups with a mountain rescue team member as tutor.

“The courses cost £35 per person for the day, with compasses and maps provided, with the entire proceeds going to the team funds.”

Pre-booking for the courses is necessary, and can be done via the team’s website.