Derby University’s Outdoor Leadership Centre at Oaklands Manor on Long Hill, Buxton, was recently opened. The Centre aims to provide degree level courses in countryside management, estate management and outdoor adventure leadership.  The new facilities are of a world class standard permitting a controlled learning environment very close to the university campus in Buxton. Having such a prestigious facility on its doorstep is an asset Buxton Mountain Rescue Team was quick to realise.

The university and the rescue team have consequently formed a partnership to promote outdoor safety. The grounds around Oaklands Manor provide an ideal mix of open moorland and wooded terrain, ideal for the rescue team to practise its first aid and casualty evacuation skills. For various reasons, permission to use open countryside has become increasingly difficult over recent years. So the team really appreciates the university granting them permission to use its 85 acre site for training sessions.

Team Chairman, Roger Bennett, presents Mike Gray, manager of Oaklands Manor Outdoor Leadership Centre, with a Certificate of Appreciation.

The Chairman of Buxton Mountain Rescue Team said, “Oaklands will be a great asset to the rescue team for short duration training events, and we look forward to further developing our relationship with the university.  We were very pleased when Centre Manager, Mike Gray, offered the use of the land which means we shouldn’t be disturbing anyone with our exercise activities.  The team had no hesitation in awarding Oaklands Manor a Certificate of Appreciation.”