Over 200 pupils from Antrim Grammar and Parkhall College were put through their paces yesterday as they joined forces to compete in an ‘It’s a knock-out’ challenge.

Designed to develop team building and leadership skills, the pupils competed in various physical and problem-solving activities which were delivered by Pathways Adventure Activities as part of a range of events building up to Armed Forces Day.

A number of pupils who took part in the event will now use their skills to compete against other teams in a similar challenge during the Armed Forces Day event, which takes place this Saturday.

Neal White, Youth Engagement Manager with Pathways Adventure Activities commented; “These activities are designed to provide essential skills for vocational qualifications such as problem solving, increasing self-esteem, improving confidence and leadership development. I thoroughly enjoyed delivering the knock-out challenge to the pupils and look forward to seeing some of them in action again this Saturday”.

Armed Forces Day will take place on Saturday 18 June and will commence at 11am with a parade of Regulars, Reserves, Cadets and Veterans through Antrim town and Antrim Castle Gardens to Antrim Stadium where it will be followed by a Drumhead Service at 12noon.  The day will include a full line up of family fun events at Antrim Castle Gardens and Antrim Stadium, from assault courses in the military recruitment village to arena acts to wow the crowd.  Street traders, military bands and a capability demonstration showing the current work of the Tri-Services are just some of the activities that will be on offer.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor John Scott commented “It is great to see so much support for Armed Forces Day within the Borough and I would ask you come along and join us for a great family day out as we celebrate our Armed Forces heroes.”

For further information on Armed Forces Day, including car park facilities, log onto www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/afd