Volunteers rise to the challenge

The team at Climb Rochdale

An adventurous group of young people have taken part in a challenging charity rock climb.

The volunteers, taking part in the Prince’s Trust Team programme run by Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, raised £200 to help out disadvantaged people from the local area.

The rock climbing event took place at Climb Rochdale on School Lane. The team climbed the collective height of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain which stands at 1344 metres. They used safety harnesses and ropes as well as plenty of endurance, coordination and muscular effort to complete the challenge. The young people worked alongside staff from the climbing centre to ensure they reached their target safely.

Steve Mayers of Big Rock Climbing Ltd who runs Climb Rochdale, said: “We are really pleased to be supporting the Prince's Trust young people with their fundraising and are extremely impressed with their efforts.”

Groundwork Prince’s Trust Team Leader Tom Mills said: “Climbing is a great challenging activity that demands teamwork, concentration and skill - all attributes connected to what is taught on the Team programme.

“I am really proud of the Team’s achievements and big thanks to Climb Rochdale and staff for supporting us.”

The young people, aged between 17 and 23 are all enrolled on the 12-week Groundwork Prince’s Trust Team programme. The self development course is designed to improve the skills, confidence and employability of unemployed young people.

As part of the course the young people raise money and then put it back into the local community to help and support others less fortunate than themselves. The group are taking out service users with disabilities from Heathbank Support Services for a day of fun activities.