ABSEILING, kayaking and raft-building are just some of the adrenaline-filled activities being experienced by Wyre Forest children and young people, thanks to a new business venture.

Nick Hands, who grew up in Kidderminster, set up Malvern Outdoor Elements last year and is using the centre to give pupils from local schools including Stourport High and Birchen Coppice Primary a taste of the great outdoors.

The 32-year-old saved the closure-threatened site, which was previously run by the county council under the name Malvern Hills Outdoor Education Centre, in May 2013 by taking it on as a not-for-profit enterprise and transforming it into a thriving hub for open-air adventure.

In its first year Malvern Outdoor Elements has achieved record trading results and attracted grant funding from the Bransford Trust for refurbishment and re-development.

Mr Hands said: “I am delighted by our performance. It is great news and we aim to build on this to deliver better experiences for all our visitors of every age and every capability.

“One of our greatest achievements is being able to ensure that any visitor of any physical ability can enjoy our facilities and we have been able to witness and share in some truly life-changing experiences as a result.

“We look forward to continuing to work with all our regular schools from Wyre Forest and broader Worcestershire, to welcoming new customers and visitors and to building the opportunities for growth amongst young people of all ages and capability through their experience of the great outdoors.”

Mr Hands, who worked at the centre during its time under county council ownership, runs the business with support from a board of directors including former Malvern Trinity councillor Beverley Nielsen.

She said: “I would like to congratulate Nick in particular for his determination and drive, enthusiasm and real can-do attitude, which has ensured this remarkable turnaround and impressive success for the centre in its first year of operation.

“I would also like to thank the staff for their contribution and Worcestershire County Council for its generous support - it has been a great year for everyone involved.”