Prudhoe Waterworld has unveiled a new addition to its range of fitness facilities with the opening of a new indoor Bouldering Wall.

Funded by centre managers North Country Leisure and an additional £10,000 from Northumberland County Council's members' small schemes fund, the project was completed in less than four weeks, converting a temporarily redundant space in the corner of the pool area.

NCL opened a similar wall at Willowburn Sports & Leisure Centre in Alnwick in 2010, which has brought an influx of both experienced and amateur climbers to the centre. Built in conjunction with professional climber Andy Long, with advice from Climb Newcastle, the wall is suitable for anyone over 5 years of age. A wide choice of routes are available for different abilities, and no ropes or harnesses are required as soft, safety matting is in place to cushion any slip ups you might make.

A special sub group was set up, including local North Country Leisure board members Ruth Fletcher, Roy McAllister and Pat Maginn, to look at options for the redundant space at Waterworld and when customers were consulted last year on potential options for the area there was a positive response for a bouldering wall which could be used by the whole community.

"The bouldering wall is a safe environment for young climbers to learn fundamental skills and where more experienced boulderers can practice their techniques." said centre manager Richard Anderson. "It is an ideal facility to encourage more participation from 12 to 16 year olds which can be a difficult age group to get involved in physical activities. It should prove to be a huge asset for local people in Prudhoe and encourage more tourists to the centre".

Cllr Bill Garrett played a fundamental role in securing funding for the project from the small scheme fund.

"I was delighted to be of assistance in getting the scheme up and running; it is a tremendous addition to the facilities already on offer at Waterworld," said Cllr Garrett.

"I know several people who have to travel outside the area to experience similar climbing facilities and we now have our very own bouldering wall on offer, in the heart of the town. North Country Leisure has a long record of engaging with community groups, particularly younger people and this project is another example of responding to community needs."

The bouldering wall is open daily for general climbing and after school and 'Rock Stars' sessions for juniors take place throughout the week, with bouldering birthday parties available this summer.