Orienteering group to host outdoor events

Orienteering is an exciting and challenging outdoor sport that exercises both mind and body.

The aim is to navigate between control points marked on an orienteering map, as a competitive sport the challenge is to complete the course in the quickest time choosing your own best route.

Often enjoyed as a recreational activity, it does not matter how young, old or fit you are, as you can run or walk making progress at your own pace on the courses planned to suit you.

Matlock Orienteering Club has been running for more than five years and has been awarded the accolade of ‘Community Club of the Year’ by Derbyshire Dales District Council.

The group meets on Wednesday evenings during term time from 6.30pm to 8pm either at The Arc Leisure Centre or local parks and forests.

A spokesman for the group said: “It is a great way to learn new skills and meet new people. We learn how to use a map and compass and the skills needed to orienteer between controls.

“It costs £2 for adults and 50p for juniors – we welcome all ages.”

The first club night will take place on Wednesday, April 26, and there will be six sessions, including celebrating World Orienteering Day on May 24 at Highfields School.

On that day, more than 250,000 all over the world are expected to take part in an orienteering event – something you could be a part of.

In June and July there will be a special summer series of Wednesday evening events in the local woods where you can test out your skills.

For more information visit www.britishorienteering.org.uk or www.dvo.org.uk.

Alternatively call Viv on 01629 734307.