One of the world’s greatest explorers will visit the north-east later this year to celebrate 10 years since the opening of an extreme sports centre.
Sir Ranulph Fiennes will be the guest speaker at a dinner in Aberdeen to celebrate the 10th birthday of Transition Extreme, a flagship youth programme based at Aberdeen Links.
Nearly one million people have passed through its doors so far to rock climb, skateboard, bike and skate.
But at its heart, it operates as a social enterprise, helping young people who have lost direction in life to transform into successful adults.
Last night, Sir Ralph said giving young people the chance to get involved in adventure sports helps them develop confidence and skills.
“When individuals take great risks and attempt great endeavours they are required to test themselves and draw on their inner reserves of strength,” he said.
“Often at home people can act more effectively in everyday life as a result of experiences ‘on the edge’ – which is precisely why enterprises such as Transition Extreme can have such a positive impact.
“Channelling their energies into these activities can help them to maximise their potential in later life and discover their own hidden strengths.”
Grahame Paterson, chief executive of Transition Extreme, said the projects and schemes it has developed have been “life changing” for many young people.
“One cannot put a value on that, after all the most precious source of energy available to our communities is that of young people – if we can tap into that, teach them how to harness their energy we know that they can reach their full potential in life,” he said.
The Adrenaline Dinner Dance will take place on September 19.
To book tickets contact george@georgewalkerevents.co.uk, or call 01467 628876.