A volunteer group that helps to manage and maintain the county’s rights of way, parks, playgrounds and open spaces has been expanded.

Twenty eight volunteers have attended an induction and practical training event at Knighton’s Offa’s Dyke Centre as the council’s Countryside Services Team takes a large step forward in expanding its Countryside Volunteer workforce. Volunteers from all over the county met to learn about the different opportunities for volunteering within Countryside Services and to receive basic safety training.

They were kitted out with new hi-vis jackets, tool kits and safety boots. The boots were provided thanks to financial support from the Powys Ramblers.

Alan Austin, Chair of Powys Ramblers said: “We are very pleased to be working with Powys County Council. Rights of way and recreational spaces are huge assets and we must do all we can to preserve them for future generations.”

The volunteers will become a familiar sight around the county as they help the council manage and maintain the 9,200km of public rights of way as well as the numerous parks, playgrounds and open spaces in the county.

The Countryside Volunteers have already built and maintained hundreds of bridges and boardwalks and well as installing countless self-closing gates.

Under the guidance of the six new Volunteer Team Leaders and Countryside Officers, the volunteers will be able to work in teams across the county helping landowners and the council to maintain paths, parks and playgrounds.

Cllr John Powell, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming so many new volunteers to the team. In these increasingly difficult times, we will have to rely even more on the generous support of such volunteers.

“Our thanks also go to the Powys Ramblers and Natural Resources Wales for their financial support of the volunteer project.”