A NEW campfire session has been set up to help get people outdoors and improve their mental health.

The initiative set up by Ribble Valley organisation Outdoors4All, is led by 38-year-old Anna Whittingham-Topliss, and 57-year-old Steve Tomlinson and is held every Wednesday morning from 9am to 10.30am.

Together, they run various projects in the Ribble Valley aimed at getting adults and young people to spend time in nature, meet new people, and talk about their mental health.

Mrs Whittingham-Topliss, said: “We sit by a real campfire and have a coffee. Today, someone brought some eggs, so we had some breakfast with them.

“It’s an opportunity to sit and reflect, relax and process feelings. We will signpost them towards getting help if they need it.

“We find that this approach works better than if we sat them down individually to talk about what’s on their minds.

“People are more willing to talk because there is no pressure. Some people just want to be around others.”

The morning session is free of charge and for adults only, but the pair also run similar sessions for two hours paid woodland experiences.

Those attending, can sit and talk, walk, or build things in the nature reserve. Working with local schools, the organisation helps young children explore their surroundings and encourage creativity.

No booking is required to attend the mornings.