North Oxfordshire residents are being offered places on free green skills courses.

At least 80 places on the building-focused, flexible courses are available to residents across the Cherwell district.

Funded by the district council, they are designed with both beginners and industry professionals in mind.

They are open to residents and businesses interested in learning more about domestic retrofit, heat pumps, solar thermal systems and photovoltaic systems.

The initiative aims to equip residents with skills that are becoming increasingly sought after due to the rising demand for energy-efficient properties.

Councillor Lesley McLean, deputy leader of the council and portfolio holder for finance and resources, said: "We want to support people in developing the vital and highly sought-after skills needed to help residents and businesses improve the energy performance and infrastructure of their homes and buildings.

"We are always looking at ways we can support the future of business across our district and are thrilled to have partnered with Abingdon and Witney College to provide residents with the opportunity to acquire innovative construction knowledge and skills by providing free, high-quality sustainability courses."

The courses are provided by Abingdon and Witney College using the council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation.

Further information and registration details will be provided during a launch event held at the Net Zero Skills Hub, Abingdon and Witney College, on August 19 from 9.30am to 11am.