PEOPLE can start the new year by taking a sculpture masterclass at Dorset County Council's Avon Heath Country Park.

Each one-day session will provide an opportunity to work with wood, stone and a variety of other materials, plus a chance to try out a range of carving techniques and patterns.

Led by Mark Vyvyan-Penney, creator of the giant play sculptures at the country park, near Ringwood, the workshops are suitable for beginners as well as those with more experience.

A class costs £25 if booked in advance or £30 on the day. The fee includes all materials and tools, plus tea, coffee and home made biscuits.

Masterclasses are being held from 10am to 4pm on: Sunday, January 6 Saturday, January 12 Sunday, January 20 Saturday, January 26 Sunday, February 3 Saturday, February 9.

There are only eight places available each day, so booking is advisable. And, if you buy five classes, you get one free.

Lunch is not included, so you can either bring your own, or buy food from the Avon Heath Café.

For more information contact Mark Vyvyan-Penney on 01305 812125, or email markvyvyan@hotmail.com.

To book a place, call Katy Scanlon on 01425 478082 or drop into the Discovery Centre at Avon Heath Country Park.

To find out more about Avon Heath Country Park, go to dorsetforyou.com/avonheath.