STAFF at some of Tynedale’s top tourist attractions have taken part in a training programme to develop skills and knowledge of front line employees across the county’s tourism sector.

Workers from Hexham’s Old Gaol, Kielder’s Leaplish Waterside Park and Forestry Commission employees were among almost 70 participants in the Know Your Northumberland ambassadors programme, which is now in its third year.

Participants can choose to learn from a range of course subjects including media, customer service and even Northumbrian cooking, and can also embark on local discovery days at different locations in Northumberland.

Delegates can work towards bronze or silver certificates, or a gold ambassador status diploma. The programme is organised by Active Northumberland and accredited by Northumberland College.

Corbridge Tourist Information Centre’s Jenny Kinnear said: “Although I thought I had a good general appreciation of the many and varied visitor attractions in our beautiful county, the Know Your Northumberland familiarisation courses have greatly added to my knowledge.

“New experiences to remember and share include the fascinating visit to Blyth Battery, the up close and personal sighting of the wild cattle of Chillingham and the walk across the Border on the historic Union Chain Bridge.”

The latest courses will launch in autumn. For more details, email Sarah.Davidson@northumberland.gov.uk or telephone (01670) 622567.