Opening of Climbing Barn

Four years of vision and dreams came to fruition on Sunday 29th June 2014 when the climbing barn at Lower Grange Farm was officially opened by mountaineer and adventurer, Kenton Cool. 

The youth funding team who initiated the fundraising for the climbing barn all gathered together and were delighted with the results.

Earlier in the day Kelvin Holford, Construction Manager for the project officially handed over the keys to Ian Foulsham, Centre Manager.

Young people who won the sectional competitions to be amongst the first to climb the barn were treated to a whole host of activities during the morning including zorbing, pedal car racing and flight simulators.  Kenton joined in and entered into the spirit of the day.

200 invited guests, including the Chief Commissioner, Wayne Bulpitt, gathered in the climbing barn to hear Kenton tell everyone about his Scouting experiences and how he came to be involved with the project - some tears were shed along the way, and not just by Kenton!  He climbed to the first plateau in just a little over 20 seconds to "pop" the balloons covering the specially commissioned plaque to mark the occasion.  The descent was a little quicker - about three seconds, much to the delight of the audience.

The event was broadcast live on You Tube.  Following this momentous occasion tea and cake was served in the barn and tours of the site were undertaken by many, eager to see the developments at Lower Grange Farm and plans for the next phases of development.

For details of how to book sessions at the climbing barn have a look at www.lowergrangefarm.co.uk.