The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) have produced a free booklet for novice walkers.

New Hill Walkers gives a basic intro to core skills and gear, and serves as a reference point for sources of further info.

'Walking in the uplands requires a collection of skills, including navigation and hazard avoidance. It is important that participants are prepared with some basic equipment and knowledge in order to enjoy hill walking safely' says the BMC website.

For those who are relatively or completely green to hill walking, New Hill Walkers highlights some essential skills you should learn and develop on your trips to the mountains.

The free 28-page booklet contains chapters on clothing and equipment, navigation, hazards, walking in winter, access and the environment, and emergency procedures. Topics range from walking on a bearing and avalanches to tick removal and poo trowels - all the good stuff. The information provided on each subject is brief and very basic, but for entry level hill walkers the main essentials are all covered. With plenty of suggestions for further info the booklet serves as a good starting point for learning the required skills.

Visit the BMC website to download New Hill Walkers