New facilities enhance accessibility at Shropshire adventure camp

More than £40,000 has been raised for a purpose-built fully accessible washroom facility at Long Mynd Adventure Camp.

The new building was officially opened by Garrison Sergeant Major Andrew (Vern) Stokes OBE MVO DL at an event attended by trustees, supporters and volunteers of the LMAC charity.

The current site, near Church Stretton, was acquired in 1978 by founders Bill and Hetty Williams – who had first begun hosting camps in the late 1950s. A tranquil space in the heart of Shropshire, the site hosts groups between March and October each year, giving young people the chance to explore nature and try new activities, whilst building their teamwork and resilience skills.

Until now, a converted container had housed facilities for those with disabilities, but multiple funders came together to fund the new building, including the National Lottery, The Bernard Sunley Foundation, The Walker Trust and the Freemasons.

LMAC Chair Peter Jenkins said: “We want as many young people as possible to be able to visit the camp, and to have all of the facilities they require to make their stay here as enjoyable, accessible and fulfilling as possible.

“Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported this project. The difference these facilities will make to the young people with disabilities who visit each year is enormous. Thank you also to those who attended the launch event, which gave LMAC supporters a chance to get together and celebrate not only the facilities opening, but just how far the site has developed since the 70s. We are very proud to offer so many people the chance to enjoy the very best Shropshire has to offer.”

Long Mynd Adventure Camp is a registered charity, with the 1.75 acre site offering plenty of space for camping and group activities, as well as a meeting and dining hall, storage, bunk houses including a wheelchair-accessible unit, and a catering-standard kitchen.

Visit longmyndadventurecamp.org.uk for more information.