Have a Go Day at Castlewellan Forest Park

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The Forest Service today hosted a “Have a Go Day” at Castlewellan Forest Park. Teachers and pupils from four special needs schools in the South Down area were invited to participate in activities specially arranged for the day such as fish stocking of the lake, orienteering, canoeing and archery.

District Forest Officer, John Watson explained: “The aim of the day was to promote the use of forests for recreation and to heighten awareness that enjoyment of forests and their facilities are not just for the able bodied.”

Castlewellan Forest Park attracts approximately 100,000 paying visitors annually. The forest covers 460 hectares of natural beauty enhanced by diverse woodland and a variety of man-made features. The facilities at the Forest Park include recently refurbished toilets (disabled toilet and baby changing available), an exhibition centre and café, which are fully accessible together with ample car and coach parking.

Hazel Campbell of Donard Special School, Banbridge said: “I am delighted that my pupils were able to take part in today’s event. The school has used other venues in the past but I did not realise that Castlewellan Forest Park has so much to offer and right on our doorstep. I am also delighted with the facilities available here.”

Explaining that the day started off with the pupils helping to stock the lake, followed by orienteering, archery and canoeing, Ms Campbell said: “Some of my pupils had never experienced these activities before, and it was a great opportunity for them to enjoy new experiences and learn something different. We will definitely return.”

1. On site activities include walking trails, horse riding, caravan and camping, fishing and canoeing.

2. The schools involved included: Rathfriland Hill School, Newry, Donard Special School, Banbridge, Knockevin Special School, Downpatrick and Beechlawn Special School, Hillsborough.

3. UTV presenter Frank Mitchell was also in attendance and thoroughly enjoyed the day.

4. Peace Maze - Original Concept and Maze Design by Beverley Lear, Lear Associates.

5. Forest Service has developed Key Stage 1 and 2 Mathematics Packages for the Peace Maze. Other educational packages eg sustainable development can be tailored to meet the needs of schools. For further information on these packages and points of contact please refer to the Forest Service website www.forestserviceni.gov.uk alternatively you can contact Jan Davidson at customer.forestserviceni.gov.uk

6. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office Tel: 028 9052 4619.