Two lucky winners will take to the climbing wall at Oaklands this weekend to start a climbing course which they won in City of York Council's School's Out publication competition.

Zoe Craven and James Smith, both 14 years old, completed a word search puzzle to find words and phrases associated with climbing. Over 200 school children entered the competition which appeared in the October half term issue.

The course will start on Saturday morning and lasts for four weeks. During this time Zoe and James will learn how to equip themselves with harnesses and helmets, how to belay and boulder and they will master basic climbing techniques. At the end of the course most young people have developed the confidence to climb the full height of the wall and abseil down. Many children will then choose to join the junior club sessions or visit the wall during opening hours accompanied by another competent climber.

Beginners courses take place for children aged five to 16 at Oaklands every four weeks. For further information on children and adult courses or to book a place contact Oaklands on 01904 552424.