YOUNGSTERS from across the region took part in an exciting learning and leadership programme in Okehampton last week. Around 30 youngsters from across the South West took part in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, co-ordinated by Okehampton Rotary and based at the YHA centre near Okehampton Station. The youngsters, all aged 16 to 18, were put into small teams and took part in a varied programme of outdoor pursuit activities, learning about team work and co-operative problem solving. Rotary clubs from across the area each put forward participants, and sponsor them to take part. The course, operated by Adventure Okehampton, takes in abseiling, rock climbing, public speaking, high rope climbing and gorge scrambling. As well as these activities, which promote team work and co-operative problem solving, there are theory talks on leadership, and the event culminates in the RYLA Challenge, which involves an overnight trek. The candidates that take part are sponsored and paid for by Rotary clubs throughout Devon. On the final day of the programme, the group were paid a visit by Rotary district governor Peter Bennett and Okehampton Mayor Cllr Paul Vachon to congratulate them on their efforts and present them with certificates. Okehampton Rotary president Sarah Watts said: 'To see the change in these young people over the space of one week is remarkable. I hope they have enjoyed their time here, and learnt a few things along the way.' Okehampton Mayor Paul Vachon said: 'The best thing about being Mayor of Okehampton is things like this. RYLA is a great opportunity for people to learn important life skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication. The programme provides the chance to learn skills that are really useful to becoming great members of society. 'It is marvellous to see that Rotary has the foresight and drive to prepare young people for the world with such a fantastic programme of events and activities.' To find out more about the Bracken Tor centre visit the website http://www.adventureokehampton.com">www.adventureokehampton.com