Friends of Low Mill

BY Margaret Meek
Low Mill Outdoor Centre has been an integral part of life in Askrigg and the area for over 30 years. Established as part of the Askrigg Foundation and with a management committee of local people, its main focus is to organize and run activity courses for young people. Families, corporate groups, local schools and youth groups also benefit, developing their physical, emotional and spiritual well being in safe and exciting ways. The setting of the centre enables countryside studies and environmental work, too. It’s open all year, providing 40 beds and a variety of indoor and outdoor facilities. Well-qualified staff work to make visits interesting, challenging and full of activity. There’s additional support for some specific group members and the centre is modified for wheelchair users. Visitors stay for most of the week or for a weekend, with half day visits arranged as part of the local School Link Project.
So – where do the Friends fit in ?
As a registered charity, Low Mill must generate its own income for staffing, maintenance and development of the building and its facilities. Payments from visitors make a big contribution to ongoing costs but larger projects, like the purchase of in-house transport or development of new courses, must be funded separately. Contrary to what many may think, there’s no state funding.
Local – and not so local – individuals, businesses, societies and banks continue to support the centre generously and many interested and committed supporters, including some who have long moved from the area, belong to the Friends, making an annual contribution to funds. They and others contribute to the ’200 Club’, with an annual draw made in January – just in time to replenish the coffers after Christmas!
Ongoing fund raising is co-ordinated by a committee drawn from the Friends.They organize regular events, ably assisted by Friends and others who give generously of their time and expertise. The annual August duck race and festivities, is a popular date in Askrigg’s calendar. Drawing together Low Mill staff, friends, clients, locals and visitors alike, it provides opportunity for exciting races down the beck side!
Recently, funds raised have enabled canoes and equipment to be bought – hence the development of new waterborne activities. In 2010, together with local Rotarians and the Masonic Lodge, strenuous efforts led to the purchase and adaptation of a new mini bus, whilst in the current year major maintenance work on the buildings has taken priority.

If you’d like to become a Friend of Low Mill or to renew your commitment, please contact Ruth Farrow (acting chair) on 01969 625276 or Sally Kingston (administrator at Low Mill) on 01969 650432. Membership costs only £5. You can join the ’200 Club’ (also £5) by contacting Jim Hawkins on 01969 625357. We do hope that you will join us in supporting this very valuable resource.

Friends’ committee: Bette Cannell (chair), Ruth Farrow (acting chair), Allan Ball (treasurer),  Jayne Bell, Jane Hailwood, Jim Hawkins, Geoff Davies and Terry Hailwood (ex-officio).