Derek’s scout and about!

Jul 14 2009 by Cameron Hay, Paisley Daily Express

DAREDEVIL council leader Derek Mackay proved he has a head for heights when he became the first person to tackle a giant adventure course on the hills above Paisley.

Hundreds of Scouts were joined by local dignitaries at the opening of the assault course at the Lapwing Lodge Outdoor Centre.

High-flying Councillor Mackay bravely stepped forward to overcome all of the obstacles placed before him.

Cash confiscated from criminals was used to help pay for the £42,000 Linear activity course on the Gleniffer Braes, which is the largest adventure course of its kind in Scotland.

Both Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire Councils also provided funding.

Visitors to Lapwing Lodge, in Glennifer Road, will be able to test their team-building and climbing skills – as well as their nerves.

A Jacobs Ladder, gladiator run, high see-saw and abseil platform are just some of the many obstacles and challenges for young and old alike to get to grips with.

Mr Mackay, who was joined at the opening ceremony by Lord Lieutenant Guy Clark and Depute Lieutenant James Wardrop, said: “The new high ropes equipment is an excellent facility and it was a great fun getting the chance to be one of the first people to try it.

“I am delighted that Renfrewshire Council was able to help fund this equipment, which I am sure will prove very popular with the people of Renfrewshire.

“I’m looking forward to having another go on it myself.”

After the opening ceremony, guests were offered the opportunity to try out the ropes course, along with the other activities available at Lapwing Lodge.

They were also offered tours of the hostel facilities, which have been upgraded over the past few years.

Lapwing Lodge was built by thread manufacturers J&P Coats in 1910 and was called Peesweep in those days.

It was originally used as a sanatorium for workers at Coats’ mills but is now owned and run by West Regional Scout Council – which was formed in 2008 by the merging of the three Scout areas of Renfrew and Inverclyde, Dumbarton and Argyll – and is managed on a daily basis by the Lapwing Lodge Management Board.

The centre, which is open seven days a week throughout the year, has a resident warden and volunteer camp staff who supervise activities.

Next year will mark the 100th anniversary of Lapwing Lodge and management are in the early stages of planning special celebrations.

If you have any memorabilia or information on Lapwing Lodge you would like to share, call Cameron Hay at the Paisley Daily Express newsroom on 0141 847 8639 or ring the warden on 01505 812035.

For more information on the new adventure course, log on to www.lapwinglodge.org.uk.