Groups from across Scotland came together in the grounds of Blair Castle yesterday (Sunday 24th September) to celebrate Scotland’s diversity in the Cairngorms National Park at the Outdoor Festival for All.

The day was organised by Backbone CIC, a Social Enterprise that works with communities from all backgrounds to help and inspire them to get outside and engage with nature.

Blair Castle and Atholl Estate played host to the event which saw over 200 people come together and take part in a range of recreational and learning activities within the Cairngorms National Park.  Activities took place throughout afternoon and included bushcraft skills, cycling, animal handling and guided walks.

The day was a huge success as described by some of the attendees:

‘This is the best day of my life, I don’t want to go back!’  Young Syrian boy with the Welcoming Project.

‘Thank you for a lovely day, it has put a smile on people’s faces.’ Rainbow Group Falkirk

‘So much laughter and fun today with Backbone CIC at Blair Castle. Keep up the good work, a brilliant partnership.’ Eileen Stuart Head of Policy & Advice SNH

Backbone CIC ran the event to showcase the leadership talent of their Community Leadership Project participants.  This project was funded by the Cairngorms National Park Authority, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and Esmee Fairbairn Foundation.

Cairngorms National Park Authority Convener Peter Argyle said, “We are delighted to be working with Backbone on this event as we have a shared aim to ensure that the wonderful landscape of the Cairngorms is available for all to enjoy.  It was lovely to see so many people who have never had access to the National Park before being able to enjoy the uniqueness of the countryside and try new skills.”

Groups who attended included; Young Muslim Sisters from Glasgow, Hindu Mandir an Asian elders group from Edinburgh, the Welcoming Project – Edinburgh who work with Refugee & Assylum Seeker family groups, Dundee International Women’s Centre and the Yusaf Youth Initiative also from Dundee and the Rainbow Group – Falkirk that includes Multi cultural family groups.

ENDS