Leisure centre scales new heights!

Aspiring climbers can now scale new heights thanks to a towering new climbing wall in the County.

At over ten metres high and 18 metres wide the new wall at Haverfordwest Leisure Centre dwarfs the previous one.

With a 12 metre high main wall, it is suitable for all abilities and competition use – and with a surface area of 235 square metres it can accommodate up to 50 climbers at a time.

The wall, which was officially opened by Councillor Elwyn Morse, Cabinet Member for Leisure at the weekend, is a joint project between Pembrokeshire County Council and the armed forces under the Community Covenant Scheme.

Soldiers from the 14th Signal and 3rd Royal Welsh Regiments – along with some of the instructors from the Adventurous Training Centre in Castlemartin – joined members of public for the opening on Saturday.

Members of the Lead British Climbing Team also gave a demonstration of their skills.

“This new, improved wall is the latest addition to the wide range of sporting facilities which we offer residents and visitors to encourage them to keep fit and active,” said Councillor Morse.

“While Pembrokeshire’s sea cliffs offer opportunities for those already skilled in climbing, the new climbing wall gives youngsters the opportunity to get a toehold into the sport.”

The wall was constructed by Dream Climbing Walls. Its features  include an overhanging basalt column with stepped roofs and a competition wall with a 2.5 metre horizontal roof.

It also has a variety of slabs and overhanging corners and provides a wide selection of climbing holds offering as many as 40 climbs –  including unique copies of real rock which are technically demanding to use.

Climbing Wall Coordinator Liz Collyer said the wall was suitable for everyone from the complete beginner to the more experienced climber.

“It really is a facility that all members of the community can use,” she said.

“We have such a fantastic natural environment around us and we would like to start showing people how to explore it from a slightly different perspective.

“To get youngsters started we have a children’s club called ‘Cheeky Chimps’ already up and running for  eight to 12year olds and  there is also an older club ‘The Hangout Club’ for youngsters between 13 and 16.  Adult courses, family ‘have-a-go’ sessions and birthday parties are also available.”

To find out more please contact Haverfordwest Leisure Centre on 01437 776676.

Captions

Councillor Morse with members of the 14th Signal and 3rd Royal Welsh Regiments at the opening. Also pictured are Liz Collyer and Councillor Tom Richards, Armed Forces Champion.

Emily Phillips,13, from Cardiff – and member of the Lead British Climbing Team – gives a demonstration of her skills. Mum Jane is from Haverfordwest.

Councillor Morse tackles the wall along with Gary Nicholas, Leisure Services Officer.