The Lakeside, Windermere, one of Europe's largest outdoor activity centres, is readying its new instructors for the season's launch.

The 11 newcomers, hailing from both the UK and East Africa, have commenced their outdoor sector careers under the guidance of embarked powerhouse charity, YMCA Lakeside.

Over the last six weeks, they have attained vital certificates and passed internal validations at the residential site, which has been operational for more than seven decades.

Martin Barry, senior operations Manager at YMCA Lakeside and also a recent appointee, has been looking after the training and management of the new instructors.

Mr Barry brings on board an impressive 30 years of outdoor sector experience.

He has said: "YMCA Lakeside is a great springboard for a career in the outdoor sector.

"We provide a high standard of training and support, which includes subsidised onsite accommodation.

"Our season runs from now until November, with a small group of seasonal staff complementing the 15 permanent staff we have here."

These fresh instructors are now prepared to extend superior outdoor learning opportunities to the 12,000 children and young individuals who visit the centre annually for top notch residential and day experiences.

They help the youth overcome obstacles, gain resilience, conquer fear, cultivate positive relationships, and develop essential skills and character traits that aid them throughout life.

Mr Barry said: "Set in 100 acres of private woodland, we mainly run day camps and residential courses across the primary and secondary ages ranges, with some older apprentice groups.

"We make the most of our natural location, offering more than 50 water and land-based activities ranging from sailing and kayaking to fell walking and abseiling.

"Once here, everything is on site."

More information about YMCA Lakeside, ranging from career opportunities to residential and holiday day camps, can be accessed through the organisation's website, https://lakesideymca.co.uk/.