PEOPLE inspired by Poldark’s stripped off scything can learn the skill for themselves at a master class.

Barnard Castle Town Council and The Heart of Teesdale Landscape Partnership is offering a ‘Learn how to Mow’ scything course on Friday, July 3 at Demesnes Meadows, Barnard Castle.

Unlike the controversy surrounding actor Aidan Turner’s scything method in the BBC One series the course, which is suitable for beginners, will teach a specialised technique with an Austrian scythe.

The session will run from 9.30am to 5pm and be led by scything expert Steve Tomlin with help from Neil Diment, a member of the Friends of the Demesnes group.

Mr Tomlin is now recognised as the leading scythe teacher in the UK and has taught scything for Natural Trust, BBC Countryfile and ITV’s Countrywise.

The course is part of the Heart of Teesdale’s Landscape Discovery project which provides training and workshops that will reconnect communities with their landscape heritage.

It also compliments the Upper Demesnes Hay Meadow project, which is led by the town council and supported by Heart of Teesdale, to create a flower-rich hay meadow using harvested seeds from nearby meadows.

The cost of the course is £40 per person and booking is essential as places are limited. Suitable clothing and sturdy footwear should be worn and all equipment will be provided.

For more information and to book a place contact town clerk Michael King on 01833-690970 or email michael.king@barnardcastletowncouncil.gov.uk