IT’S COLD IN THEM THAR HILLS

It was one tough weekend, enjoyed by 380 young people who learnt the meaning of ‘true grit’ as they tackled the sixth annual MourneMountain Adventure – and teenage Cadets from Armagh were right there at the finishing line!

They were amongst young people aged 12 to 18 years from across Northern Ireland,who navigated their way across trails and over mountains, completing demanding tasks in a multi-agency partnership initiative involving Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership, NIFRS, PSNI, RFCA, MOD & NI Water.  

The venture mixed young people from a vast range of backgrounds and gave them the opportunity and support to engage in some risk taking adventure as they enjoyed the rugged beauty of the Mourne Mountains. 

Setting out in teams of six they took on either the Challenge Route (designed for those individuals who have limited experience of mountain climbing) or the Expedition Route. (for those more familiar with trekking through the mountains). When they arrived at the Silent Valley, despite damp weather conditions, all the teams were rewarded with a vast range of fun activities including archery, laser clay pigeon shooting and even a Viking Village display, complete with axe wielding and head throwing! Then it was back to sea level and a breath-taking ride out from Kilkeel Harbour into the Irish Sea on board Rigid Inflatable Boats.

The combination of outdoor adventure, team spirit, friendship and fun highlighted the value and importance of channeling youthful energy and high spirits into positive alternatives to anti-social behaviour.