Safety firstA series of winter related safety talks is being run around the country by Bren Whelan, a mountain instructor's certificate (MIC) holder and member of the Association of Mountaineering Instructors. Run in conjunction with the Irish Mountain Rescue Association (IMRA), the talks are supported by Mountaineering Ireland. They will be held in Letterkenny (Oct 20th), Sligo (Oct 27th), Dublin (Nov 2nd) and Dundalk (Jan 27th, 2011). To book visit mountain training.ie or tel: 087-6657790.
- Halloween artsBallycroy National Park is hosting a Halloween arts and crafts workshop for children on Saturday, October 23rd and 30th. Suitable for primary school children, the events will last about two hours and will take place at the visitor centre. An adult must remain with child/children for the duration of the event. This event is free of charge, but booking is essential. See ballycroynationalpark.ie or tel: 098-49888.
- Rescue challengeThe Glen of Imaal Mountain Rescue Team and Friends of the Glen (FOG) are hosting a 26km challenge on Saturday, November 20th, to raise funds for a new base. Four-person teams will take part, with each team raising €400. Registration is at 4pm at the site of the new base at Kilafin, Trooperstown (between Laragh and Annamoe). A coach will then transport participants to the start of the walk at Crone Wood. More details and a map of the route at wmr.ie or by phoning 087-2698659.
- fbradley@irishtimes.com