This summer, Somerset Skills and Learning (SS&L) are opening a new training centre in Shepton Mallet, providing the local and wider community with courses and workshops to help improve lives through learning.

Shepton Mallet is well-placed in the heart of the Mendips, ideally situated near Wells, Bath and Bristol making it accessible to many people.

It's one of the oldest market towns in Somerset with many quirky, independent shops within walking distance of SS&L's new centre.

Kathryn Baker, CEO of SS&L, said: "I'm very much looking forward to opening our new centre in the heart of Shepton Mallet where we will make community and adult education accessible to local people.

"This has never been more important than now, as we start to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic."

The building SS&L have chosen was previously the Tourist Information Centre in the High Street, which has been unused for some time. It's undergoing extensive refurbishment and will boast a state-of-the-art training room.

Tracy Aarons, deputy chief executive of Mendip District Council, said: "It's great to see a new centre opening in Shepton Mallet where people will be able to easily access community and adult education.

"The investment in this new facility will bring opportunities both locally and to the wider community.

"We look forward to welcoming and working with Somerset Skills and Learning and wish them every success in their new location."

Shepton Mallet will be SS&L's fifth centre in Somerset, together with Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil and Frome.

They are also continuing to expand their distance learning and online offer. Courses will be available in Shepton Mallet from later this summer – visit sslcourses.co.uk for details.