Having completed the feat of climbing Everest in 2022, The Forshaw Group’s managing director, Liam Hanlon, along with the wider Tri-4-Life team, recently visited a Wirral organisation for aspirational young people. As part of his regular talks and charity fundraising activities, Liam has been visiting a range of organisations across the North West to described to them how he and the team carried out this incredible achievement – from the training that was involved, to the equipment they used.
Wirral Youth Zone, named by its young people as The Hive, is a purpose-built facility. It was opened in April 2017 and is located next to the new fire station on Bright Street in Birkenhead. The range of facilities available there is open to young people aged between eight and 19, and up to 25 for those with disabilities. For the annual membership cost of £5 (plus 50p per visit), it provides young people from across the Wirral with unique access to fantastic facilities and a safe environment where they can come and enjoy themselves.
Raising ambitions
Guest speakers such as Liam can inspire young people with their stories of adventure, commitment and ambition. During the visit, Liam described the hazards and risks he and his team encountered enroute to the summit. He also took with him an array of climbing equipment and clothing that he used on his trip.
The Hive aims to help its youngsters raise their aspirations and confidence, to create a happier and healthier generation. It may one day inspire one of the young people if not to climb a mountain, then to reach the pinnacle of their own achievements.
Liam said afterwards: “It was an absolute pleasure to be there with the team and to meet everyone. The youngsters were great and were wonderful ambassadors for The Hive. They were engaging and asked lots of great questions.”
Ashley Pennington, Philanthropy Manager at The Hive, commented: “It was incredibly interesting and our young people enjoyed it immensely. To hear a first-hand account of a dangerous expedition will have made a big impression on our youngsters. They particularly enjoyed looking at and trying out the mountaineering equipment. The Hive thrives on aspirational young people and their hopes for the future – we really appreciate Liam’s time and for making it such a remarkable night.”
