Being woken at 6am every morning for physical exercises during the school holidays doesn`t sound like much fun for a 16 year-old. But ask Matthew White of Netherton if he would do it again and the answer would be a resounding YES!

Matthew was chosen, after interview, as this year`s candidate to represent Horbury and Ossett Phoenix Rotary Club at the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) course at the Hebden Hey Activity Centre, Hebden Bridge in July this
year. The course contains a mixture of physical and mental challenges, allowing participants to experience leadership, team building, communication and problem solving skills.

Matthew spoke of his experiences at a recent Rotary meeting and his obvious enjoyment and appreciation of the opportunity shone through. He described his participation in activities such as Orienteering, High Ropes courses, Bell Boating, Raft Building and overnight camping in a self-made "tent".

He would not have missed the experience for the world and was adamant that the teamwork skills and knowledge gained over the 5-day (and night!) course would stay with him for ever.