A new regular event will teach key skills and encourage Maxonians to get outdoors.

James Douglas is launching his inaugural bushcraft skills workshop in Macclesfield this weekend, under the moniker 'Wild Wanderer Bushcraft'.

Attendees will learn safe and effective knife skills and knife maintenance for use in the wild to create tools.

The skills will also make you capable of crafting essential camp equipment such as (mallets, tent pegs or pot hanger).

"We only have small classes, limited to five people," said James.

"With only being five people, it gives me the opportunity to do almost one-to-one support, and we are not overwhelming people.

(Image - Wild Wanderer Bushcraft)

"A small group of five keeps it tight knit, everyone gets to know each other quickly, we all have a brew, all have a fire, and I can ensure everyone is working safely.

"The knife skills starts at half 9 on Saturday, and is about three hours long."

The new sessions will be at the One Project Community Gardens in Macclesfield. And it is not just about learning something new.

(Image - Wild Wanderer Bushcraft)

As well as teaching key skills, the sessions are to promote wellbeing and men's mental health.

These skills personally helped James, at times when his career as a chef led him to burnout twice. He finds bushcraft gives him calm and clarity.

"My ultimate message to people would be to get outdoors more," told James.

(Image - Wild Wanderer Bushcraft)

"You've got a beautiful forest here [in Macclesfield].

"The longer you spend there, the better your mental health will be.

"As for learning the skills side of it, they are invaluable. It is something that has been handed down for generations all over the world.

Dates can be found on the image above.

"This is something where I see my life going."

"If I can get five people to enjoy it, they remember it and teach their children. These are skills that are going to get passed down."

The opportunity in Macclesfield came about by good old fashioned networking.

Other bushcraft skills taught include practicing notches and reductions.

James already sells tattoo balms and other herbal based products at Macclesfield venues like Dick's General Stores, Hadfields, and Artmageddon. Macclesfield Indoor Market stalls Modern Woolfare and Mother Maiden & Crone also stock James' products.

It was thanks to his friendship with numerous Macclesfield Indoor Market Traders, that they were able to introduce him to Martin Handley from One Project Macclesfield, who have the space where the James' events will be held. (One Project also have a stall in Macclesfield Indoor Market),

"Brian from Modern Woolfare supported me in starting this up," explained James.

(Image - Wild Wanderer Bushcraft)

"There is a great support network in Macc, I like the atmosphere, the people, that has been such a huge factor in making that decision to start this.

"While there are numerous bushcraft masterclasses around the country, there are very few in urban areas.

"I am also starting an event called the Campfire Confidential, which is held one Sunday a month and allows men to get together outdoors, for brews, chat and talk. That is also at the One Project Community Gardens."

Each session is a few hours long. Allowing one-to-one feedback and the chance to relax from modern life.

"I see Macclesfield as a progressive town, seeing all the independents and artisan businesses has led me to do this.":

To book a Wild Wanderer Bushcraft event, please click HERE.

You can also keep up to date with James on Instagram.

(Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

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