Project aims to empower youngsters through nature

The sessions will include gardening skills and conservation

A charity that looks after green spaces in Peterborough has been awarded a National Lottery grant to run a scheme empowering young people by connecting them with nature.

Nene Park Trust (NPT), which manages seven sites in the city, has been given £160,000 for a two-year project offering workshops in gardening, conservation and wildlife surveying.

It aims to reach 500 people aged 11 to 25 through group sessions, by working with local wildlife, arts and community groups.

"The multi-partnership working will allow us to test, learn and share successful approaches to improved ways of working and enhanced outcomes," said Nicola Craven, head of development for NPT.

Luke Payn, manager of Westraven Community Cafe and Garden, called it an "important project", adding that it would help young people with their personal development.

Darren Starkey from Peterborough-based Froglife, said the project could "create several new habitats that will help amphibians and other wildlife to thrive."

The first session took place at a school last week, with further classes planned at the YMCA and Queen Katharine Academy in Walton.