A popular outdoor activity centre at one of Leeds’ best-known beauty spots is inviting local people to join its crew for a special challenge marking two historic milestones.
Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre will celebrate 20 years on the water at Yeadon Tarn this weekend. To mark the occasion, staff are calling on adventure-seekers to help complete 400 laps of the tarn on Saturday, June 6, as part of the city-wide What’s Your 400? campaign. The event was inspired by research carried out by outdoor activities coach Toby Cade. Over the past two decades, the centre has helped thousands of visitors try their hand at activities including sailing, paddleboarding, orienteering and off-road cycling.
During Saturday’s open day, participants will be invited to complete laps of the tarn on foot or take to the water by sailing, kayaking or paddleboarding. Qualified instructors will be on hand throughout the event to help newcomers enjoy the water safely. Doors will open at 9am, with the centre team recording every lap completed before the open day draws to a close at 1pm.
Adam-Peter Gair, outdoor activities manager at the centre said:
“We’re so proud that we’ve been open for 20 years and that we’ve given so many people the chance to get active out on the water and try something different in such a beautiful part of Leeds.
“The team thought it was only right that we mark the centre’s anniversary and play our part in celebrating What’s Your 400? in our own way. It’s a historic year for us and for Leeds and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to the tarn this weekend.”
Sessions can be booked in advance through the Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre page on the Active Leeds website at www.active.leeds.gov.uk
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy said:
“It’s inspiring to see so many people across the city getting into the spirit of Leeds 400 and commemorating this landmark year in their own way. As a city, Leeds has such a unique story and personality and it’s exciting to see that reflected in the breadth and creativity of ideas coming forward for Leeds 400.”
Launched earlier this year, the What’s Your 400? campaign is encouraging people across Leeds to celebrate the city and its communities by organising an activity, event or challenge inspired by the number 400. Ideas could range from walking, running and cycling to baking, volunteering, dancing or painting, with organisers emphasising that every contribution counts.
Those who take part are being invited to share their achievements on social media using the hashtag #WhatsYour400 and download a certificate online to mark their accomplishment. The campaign forms part of the Leeds 400 programme, commemorating four centuries since the city received its first royal charter from King Charles I in 1626.
Anyone in Leeds can take part in the What’s Your 400? campaign. Further details about how to get involved and download a certificate are available on the Culture Programmes website.
More information about Leeds 400 and the wider programme of events can also be found online at www.leedscultureprogrammes.org.uk
