This summer, Lancaster University is running a series of two-day courses in

Kendal town centre from 6 to 13 July.

This new programme is called the Summer Alternative and includes some of Lancaster University's most popular courses for adults.

The courses are open to all adults and cover a wide range of topics from astronomy to local history, and from psychology to nature in the Lake District.

Of particular interest are three courses that have been tailored to give a local flavour.

Writing From a Sense of Place is a creative writing course that will use Kendal town centre as a source of inspiration.

Classroom sessions will be combined with excursions with a notebook and a touch of history.

The landscape around Kendal, both urban and rural, will provide a stunning backdrop for a landscape photography course, Picturing Kendal.

In the company of an experienced, professional photographer you can learn about photographic techniques as well as how to spot what will make a good photo.

We have all heard of Grasmere gingerbread and this is just one of the recipes that will be discussed in an enticing course called Cooks and Their Books.

You'll have the chance to find out about cookery through the ages and how the availability of different ingredients changed the way we cook.

What's more, you'll even have the chance to taste gingerbread made from recipes that were popular at different stages in the past, from the 16th century onwards.

Each course costs just £ 22, with concessions available, and runs for two days from 10am - 4pm.

For details of all the courses, or to book your place, pick up a copy of the Department of Continuing Education's courses guide, On Course, from your local library, or 'phone 01524 592624.

Please note that places are limited, so book yours today!