Hartlepool children have fun at Carlton Camp

For only the second time, the new project saw youngsters head to Carlton Camp.

It was town charity Friends of Carlton Camp who put together the break, and it was hailed as a real success.

Michael Sumpter, one of the organisers of the new scheme, said: “The Friends of Carlton Camp paid for 60 Hartlepool children to go to Carlton Camp for the weekend and with this being the second trip of its kind so far, what a fantastic weekend it was.”

Students came from several schools in Hartlepool such as Eskdale, Stranton, St Aidans, Ward Jackson and Lynnfield.

Michael added: “The children took part in a variety of activities which included high ropes, gully walking, and den building.”

The Friends of Carlton Camp was formed nearly three years ago.

Its aim was to financially support local schools, giving young people “the opportunity to take part in the Carlton experience,” said Michael.

It was particularly aimed at “those children who would not normally get the opportunity for one reason or another,” he added.

“Another aim of the charity, is to support the centre in purchasing equipment and future site development.”

Thanks to the Friends organisation, two new televisions have alrady been bought for the centre and Michael added: “We are in the process of providing a new kitchen and a shelter which will be constructed near the high ropes course.”

There will be no easing up in the efforts to do even more for the venue which is in Carlton-in-Cleveland.

Michael said: “We are working on several fundraising events at the moment.”

A music night with a 1940/1950 theme, supported by the harmony group Seatones, is on the way with the Seatones offering their services free of charge, said Michael.

And a ten mile sponsored walk in September will be held around the Carlton Camp area.

Anyone interested should contact Michael on (01429) 231500.