14 October 2008
Young people will be the focus of a brand new project being launched by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA) this year. Called ‘Go Dales!’, it is aimed at introducing eight to 25-year-olds from the Keighley, Bradford, Craven and Richmond areas to the National Park and to the huge range of adventure activities they can take part in in its beautiful landscape.
Kath Needham has been appointed to the three-year, Sport England-funded post of Go Dales Project Officer and will be based at the YDNPA’s Colvend offices in Grassington. “The whole idea is to get young people interested in some of the different activities on offer in the National Park by offering taster sessions in a whole range of sports including rock climbing, sailing and walking,” she said.
“We also want to introduce them to existing clubs that take part in the individual sports so we can overcome common hurdles like “I don’t know anyone in the group” or “I don’t know how to get there”. “Hopefully, by doing this, we will help them to develop enthusiasm for a new pastime and a deep appreciation of the National Park and everything it has to offer.”
Kath is eager to make contact with individuals or people who work in the community who think they may have a group that might be interested in trying different activities. “I’m excited to be working with such a wide variety of young people – and being in a position to open doors of opportunity for people is wonderful,” she said.
David Gent, Regional Director of Sport England Yorkshire, said, “Go Dales is a fantastic project that we’re delighted to be able to support. “The idea is that, by giving young people lots of chances and a great experience, they will want to keep coming back to the National Park to take part in sport and outdoor activities regularly.”
Anyone who would like more information can contact Kath Needham on 01756 751633 or by emailing her at kathryn.needham@yorkshiredales.org.uk.
|
|
|
|
|
