LIFESTYLE: Wild blue yonder beckons the young

A Manifesto for Youth Adventure was launched yesterday with the aim of breathing new life into a tradition of outdoor pursuits and adventuring through schools and youth groups. Disadvantaged youngsters with low self- esteem and "at risk" of turning to crime are reckoned to be high among those who benefit.

Sir Chris Bonington, mountaineer and patron of the Foundation for Outdoor Adventure, said he was convinced "well-managed adventurous experiences can be of enormous value to the young". Opportunities for outdoor activities through schools are on the wane, often due to financial pressures. But team work outdoors can improve relationships and develop judgement, says the Foundation. Adventuring addresses directly the common complaint that "people are information rich and experience poor".

- Stephen Goodwin

2 Foundation for Outdoor Adventure, St Michael's Nook, Muncaster, Ravenglass, Cumbria CA18 1RD.