HARD working volunteers, residents with disabilities, parents and carers at Fergushill Day Centre in Kilwinning have all joined forces to open up the world of outdoor sport to local people with learning disabilities.

The group of intrepid individuals have come together to form ‘The Lookout Club’ – an Independent Community Group - with the aim of encouraging more people with disabilities to get involved in the great outdoors.

Funding received through the club’s own efforts, together with a substantial award of £2,000 from The Big Lottery Fund, has allowed the group to access outdoor sports at Castle Semple Activity Centre in Lochwinnoch. Qualified and trained members of staff at the activity centre will give everyone – whatever their ability – the opportunity to experience fun and challenging outdoor pursuits, such as, canoeing, sailing and speedboat rides.

Day Centre Officer at North Ayrshire Council’s Fergushill Centre and Secretary of The Lookout Club, Karen Meldrum said: “We hope that this initiative will - through participation - increase the confidence of our service users and their parents and carers.

“Through realising that these and other outdoor activities are safe and fun for all we hope that the individuals involved will spread the message out into the wider community.

“So far, the project has been a great success with the activities being enjoyed by everyone at the club. I’m really looking forward to our future adventures.” Fergushill Day Service is a centre for adults with learning disabilities.

Around 90 people from North Ayrshire with complex needs currently attend the centre and participate in a wide range of activities focused on developing skills and building sustainable relationships.