MANX SCOUTS TO BUILD NEW CLIMBING FACILITY

Manx Lottery Trust has awarded a grant of £34,859 to the Manx Scouts for the reconstruction of a climbing wall designed for its youngest Scouts, the Beavers, and children with additional needs.

Featuring a sloping design with ample hand and foot holds, the climbing wall, which is located at the Scout Campsite in Ballasalla, has become a popular resource used by the Scouts.

Trust funding will be used to reconstruct the wall, along with the installation of an overhead cover, ensuring protection from the elements and extending its usage throughout the year. The project also includes the construction of a concrete slope with holds to simulate rock climbing, offering children a chance to experience climbing on a more natural terrain.

Guy Thompson, Island Commissioner for the Manx Scouts said: ‘We’d like to take this opportunity to thank Manx Lottery Trust for their support in revitalising our climbing wall. The climbing facility has played a vital role in the lives of children and offers an inclusive climbing experience for those who require additional support.

‘With the addition of a cover and a rock-climbing feature, we are excited to provide an even safer and more inclusive climbing environment for our Scouts to learn and grow.’

Stephen Turner, Chairman of Manx Lottery Trust, added: ‘The Trust is delighted to support the Manx Scouts with their project to improve accessibility and safety at their climbing wall, which has given children of all abilities the opportunity to experience the joys of climbing.  We wish them the best of luck with the project.’

The Trust has also awarded a grant of £13,100 to the Association, which will see lifesaving defibrillators installed across each of the Scout’s six headquarters along with its Ballasalla campsite.

To find out more about the Manx Scouts, visit: www.scouts.im