People will be offered the chance to learn some construction skills at a free workshop in Welshpool later next month.

Construction business Pave Aways is hosting the event at the former Oldford Road Nursery and Infants School site on July 15 from 9am to 3pm.

Pave Aways are currently converting the former school into offices for Powys County Council as well as a family centre and nursery.

Under the guidance of the company’s carpenters, participants will get hands on experience while working on a project to build a bench from pallets and other recycled materials.

Attendees will learn basic carpentry skills, measuring skills, how to use a drill and hand saw, the health and safety of working with power tools and wood, sanding and painting techniques and about design skills and structural architecture.

Training Manager Michelle Benjamin said: “It’s an ideal opportunity for community groups or individuals who just want to learn new skills or are considering a move into the construction industry.

“It can be hard for people interested in working in construction trades to get hands on experience and this workshop is an ideal opportunity to pick up valuable skills and get some advice from our experts.

“It’s a fun introduction to construction and they’ve been very popular in the past so early booking is advised.”

All participants will be presented with a certificate on completion of the course and the furniture will then be donated to a local good cause or community centre at the end of the workshop.

Anyone interested in joining the build a bench workshop on July 15 can book a place by emailing michelle.benjamin@paveaways.co.uk or contacting 01691 682 111.