Adventure role models 'lacking'

Youngsters from minority groups will be urged to take up pursuits

A lack of role models on the adventure scene may be discouraging black and minority groups and youngsters from enjoying the Scottish countryside.

The issue is to be tackled at a two-day conference in the Cairngorms National Park, which starts on Monday.

Pammy Johal, of outdoors organisation Backbone, said there were few black and minority role models on TV adventure shows or at training centres.

She added that some people did not know the Cairngorms were accessible to them.

The National Trust for Scotland, Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), John Muir Trust, Duke of Edinburgh's Awards and the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers will also be involved in the conference at Mar Lodge, near Braemar.

It will be the first time a Backbone event has been held in Scotland and about 30 people are expected to attend.

The conference will look at how community groups who work with black and minority ethnic young people can engage them in the countryside and outdoor pursuits - such as canoeing, mountain biking and climbing.

Key messages

Ms Johal, who has worked with minority groups for 25 years, said people felt there were barriers stopping them from enjoying the countryside.

She said: "A big one for me is a lack of role models in the adventure scene and again in the field of the outdoors."

Eric Baird, deputy convener of the CNPA, said one of its key messages was that it was a park for all.

He said: "The Cairngorms National Park Authority is pleased to be involved in this event as it aims to break down the barriers that black and minority ethnic people may feel stop them enjoying the park."