Such an inspirational place should not be lost to county (From Malvern Gazette)

Such an inspirational place should not be lost to county

10:27am Friday 10th November 2006

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AS a former employee of Malvern Hills Outdoor Centre (MHOC), I whole-heartedly agree with all the comments made by Mr Falconer (Your Letters, October 13) and urge all current and former users to support a campaign to ensure a sustainable future for MHOC.

As an undergraduate, MHOC helped train and inspire me, along with many others, to pursue a full-time career in education. It upsets me that such an inspirational place could be considered for closure. Yes, it's easy to have a pop at county hall for this decision - but that's because it's a crazy decision!

Teaching outdoor education I have first hand seen the benefits on a daily basis for 10 plus years. The high quality of courses delivered at MHOC and the outdoor service as a whole in Worcestershire (of which the MHOC plays an integral role) to a vast spectrum of society will be greatly missed if this short sighted policy is carried out.

At a time when the benefits of citizenship, healthy living, sport for all and lifelong learning are being promoted, it is rather odd the county council should make a draconian decision to sell-off one of the best education centres in the country While I do appreciate that the service is non-statutory, surely the educational worth to the 4,000 plus people who benefit from their experience each year is well worth the expenditure.

The willingness to pursue competent, prudent financial management at county hall level, rather than opting for a hatchet job could surely secure this valuable resource and the previous expenditure on it.

This centre has and should continue to provide long-term benefits for the residents, and current voters, take note councillors, many of whom have attended the centre as children and adults, of Worcestershire.

To close it is clearly a wrong decision, whether examined politically or financially.

Former users, staff and educationalists please support Mr. Falconer's request to assist and campaign to save the centre.

Bill Stephen (outdoor education teacher and course director MHOC 2000-03), West Barns, East Lothian. Scotland.

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