Mountfern Adult Centre Coleraine enjoy a day of exploration on Rathlin Island

Seven service users from Mountfern Adult Centre in Coleraine have enjoyed a day of exploration on Rathlin Island as part of their Duke of Edinburgh bronze award.

Accompanied by four staff, their adventure began at the ferry terminal in Ballycastle as they endeavoured to complete the expedition section of the award by taking part in a ramble or hike as part of a day trip.

Explaining more, Centre Manager Michael Bacon said: “There has to be a purpose to the activity, and our aim was to visit the island’s bird sanctuary, take some photos and then complete an artwork or project when we returned.

“Due to Rathlin’s wild location we felt it would be a good physical activity as well an educational experience for the service users, not to mention an adventure as well!

“The adventure started almost immediately as we encountered a pod of dolphins as we left the harbour. The journey over was eventful with a big swell which left the boat rocking from side to side – we were soaked before we arrived!”

Michael said he was very proud of everyone who took part, despite the challenges they faced: “A visit to the lighthouse involves steep gradients on access paths and almost 100 steps down the Cliffside. Within the lighthouse tower there are a further 68 steps descending to the lower viewing platform via a narrow stairway. We all had to negotiate those steps on the way back up. It was a demanding climb and needed a considerable effort to get back to the top but we all managed the climb without any difficulties.

“Once at the bottom we were met with an amazing mix of sights, sounds and smells with thousands of birds nesting and rearing their chicks.

“It was a fantastic experience for all of our service users, and we’re very grateful to everyone on the island who made us feel so welcome – a day to remember for everyone.”