A SUMMER-long programme of free rock climbing on the “Urban Climbing Wall” in city parks launches this week.

‘Climbing in the Park’ takes the rock climbing experience on the road courtesy of the Tower Climbing Centre’s 8.5metre-high “Urban Climbing Wall”.

Mark Highton, Climbing Development at The Tower Climbing Centre, said: “We are aiming to introduce the exhilarating sport of rock climbing to as many young people as we can with this program. Our Urban Climbing Wall will be at a variety of city parks through out the summer giving youngsters a chance to have a go at one of Europe’s fastest -growing sports.

“Each time we’ve taken the wall out to various venues across the city we’ve been amazed at the level of enthusiasm and raw, natural talent we have for rock climbing in the city. Who knows, we might even spot a potential young climbing star of the future at one of the parks events.”

The ‘Climbing in the Park’ programme is free of charge and, as well as providing an opportunity to experience rock climbing in a safe environment, will also provide information about the new National Indoor Climbing Achievement Scheme (NICAS) that is now being offered at the Tower Climbing Centre at Leicester Leys Leisure Centre.

“We will be handing out information and a discount on the NICAS Learn to Climb training courses to everyone who has had a climb in the hope that the fun experience on the Urban Climbing Wall will be just the start of a life long passion for the sport,” added Mark.

Cllr Andy Connelly, Leicester City Council cabinet member for leisure, said: “This programme is a great example of how sport and parks go hand in hand. It is a great opportunity for young people to experience something new and exciting with the added safety of trained instructors.”

The full ‘Climbing in the Park’ programme is as follows (all events run from 10am to 3pm unless stated otherwise):

Mowmacre Recreation Ground: 23rd July (3-7pm)

Abbey Park: 24th July, 28th July, 11th August and 21st August

Victoria Park: 25th July, 18th August and 29th August

Evington Park: 30th July

Knighton Park: 1st August and 25th August

Monks Rest Gardens: 3rd August

Willowbrook Park: 4th August

Cossington Recreation Ground: 27th August

Aylestone Recreation Ground: 8th August

Humberstone Park: 13th August

Rushey Fields Recreation Ground: 15th August

Spinney Hill Park: 19th August

Watermead Country Park: 30th August (11am-4pm)

For more information call the Tower Climbing Centre on 233 3123.

The Urban Climbing Wall in use at Evington School