There now 10 newly-trained environmental experts ready to pass on their knowledge after a training course run by Communities Living Sustainably in Dorset (CLS ).

On a hot Saturday, 10 people learnT how to carry out on environmental audit with the launch of a Community Buildings Energy and Sustainability Guide.

CLS has produced the guide to help users and managers of community buildings improve the building’s environmental performance, while also saving money on bills and improving comfort and attractiveness. The guide, which is available on the CLS website, was launched at the training event held in Maiden Newton village hall.

The training included a practice environmental audit of the village hall, which participants found to have a south facing roof which may be perfect for solar panels.

Participants were encouraged to conduct audits on their own buildings and to get their entries into the Best Village Competition – Environment Category, before the closing date of August 29.

There are two ways to enter the competition – one a group working together to save money on household bills.

The other will conduct a simple environmental audit and draw up an action plan for a community building. Emily Bullock, Greener Choices co-ordinator for CLS said “The event went down really well.

“We are thrilled that participants are going to support each other in auditing their own community buildings and spread the learning in their towns and villages.

“The guide and accompanying review form are intended to be easy to use and self-explanatory so I am hoping that many communities can use them. “I’m looking forward to hearing how participants get on and may run further courses in the autumn.”