BARONESS Royall of Blaisdon will be cutting the ribbon at Christian Adventure Centre in Viney Hill this weekend as they unveil their exciting new development.

Since April last year, work has been underway to convert the once derelict building into an impressive stable block where disabled and disadvantaged young people can come and enjoy outdoor activities in a controlled environment.

The new 'stable project', which is part of a 'Growth through Adventure' scheme, offers a well-equipped meeting area, training venue and a huge range of outdoor adventure activities including moutain biking, archery and even canoeing.

Development Manager, Tony Williams said: "The site is available to the wider community and as we are pushing towards being more eco-friendly it has meant that we can keep costs down. We are proud that we can offer somewhere where 'difficult' youngsters and disabled children can come and enjoy the great outdoors among specialised staff.

The charity has attracted funding to the tune of £130,000 from a range of trusts, the Forest Local Action Group and local businesses.

Tony continued: "We are overwhelmed by the incredible support we have received from people to help build the development. We can't thank them enough for their help. Although we still need a further £20,000 to completely finish the site and equip it."

Centre Manager, Jon Holden, says: "We want to make 'Growth through Adventure' accessible to all young people of the Forest and the county and we believe that 'The Stables' will enable this.

"Some young people find it difficult to access the very things that many of us take for granted and we believe that 'The Stables' is a venue where everyone will be able to achieve, whatever their age, ability or experience."

The Stables training and adventure centre opens April 13 between 2-4pm.