Thanks to Emily from Challenge & Adventure at Parkhurst Forest for news of tonight’s awards ceremony. Ed
Challenging and disadvantaged young people from the Isle of Wight will share their experiences of an epic eleven day expedition across Scotland, at a special awards ceremony tonight.
The group of eight young teenagers trekked and canoed over 130kms from Fort William on the west coast to Spey Bay on the north-east coast, carrying all their own equipment, tents and food.
Eight week programme
The life-changing trip was part of an eight week programme run by Isle of Wight charity Challenge & Adventure which works with challenging and disadvantaged young islanders, using outdoor activities to re-build their confidence and self-esteem and help them get their lives back on track.
Phil Wells from Challenge and Adventure, said “This was an incredible challenge for the young people, none of whom had done much in the outdoors. Not only was it a serious physical challenge but mentally it was hugely demanding.”
No contact with outside world
“To be away from family and friends with no mobile phones, computers, Facebook or contact with the outside world and with the only opportunity for washing in cold streams and Lochs was very challenging.
“They can be incredibly proud of having completed this journey, a journey which very few people can say they have done.”
The young people will be presented with canoeing qualifications and accolades gained through the challenge at an award ceremony in Newport tonight (19th July 2012).
