Countrysiders scale the heights in Peak District

Sixteen Norfolk Countrysiders aged from 13 to 16 — junior members of the Young Farmers Clubs — enjoyed a fun and challenging week away at a residential activity centre near Buxton in the Derbyshire Peak District.

"They climbed a 20ft wall and a Jacobs ladder suspended between large oak trees, and they also went tunnelling under the hillside seeking escape hatches along the way," says Moira Harrison, Countrysiders’ development officer.

"But the memory that will stay longest will be the night spent outside in shelters made with sticks and brash and armed with nothing more than a sleeping bag. The temperature dropped during the night and early morning cloud descended — but they all made it through to a welcome breakfast of bacon and eggs."

Douglas Young, managing partner of Lovewell Blake who provided the specially designed polo shirts, says the Countrysiders section provides an excellent entry into local YFC clubs, giving the opportunity for youngsters from all backgrounds to learn more about what the countryside offers.

Among other sponsors of the activity week were Broadland District Council and Lucie’s Lifesaving fund, which covered first aid training given during the evenings.