A NEW climbing wall at a college near York presented no trouble to record-breaker Alan Hinkes as he joined staff and students for the official launch.

Dr Hinkes, who was the first Briton to climb all of the world’s highest mountains, officially opened the new climbing wall at Askham Bryan College at a ceremony last night.

Dr Hinkes told students how important it was for young people to get involved in the great outdoors.

He was one of the first to try out the new wall – a little lower than the 14 8,000-metre peaks he has climbed since he started his climbing career at school in Northallerton.

Ade Brownlow, section leader for adventure and outdoor learning at the college, said: “Many of our outdoor pursuits students will eventually become instructors and centre managers in this vibrant and growing industry.”