FREE training is available to help people use petrol-powered garden machinery safely and efficiently.
The three-day course run by Middlesbrough Environment City (MEC) mainly covers rotary mower, strimmer and hedge trimmer use and is aimed at amateur users, volunteers and novice professionals.
Those taking part will learn how the machines and engines work, how to carry pre-use checks, ensure safe use and carry out routine maintenance, servicing and fault-finding.
The course takes places on Tuesdays February 2, 9 and 16 from 9.30am to 3.30pm, with the first session at MEC’s North Road office and the following two at the training centre on Cargo Fleet Lane.
Although the course is not a practical assessment, the criteria for the NPTC machinery assessments will be covered, and learners will have a chance to practise using the machines where possible.
A certificate of achievement will be issued for full completion of the course.
To be eligible those taking part must be at least 19 and have been resident in the UK for at least three years. Places should only be booked by those able to attend all three sessions – non-attendance could impact on the funding available to MEC for future courses.
To book a place, email David Scriven at david.scriven@menvcity.org.uk and provide a contact telephone number.