Alumni of an adventure-based youth programme have been invited to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Outward Bound Bermuda will begin festivities at the start of next year and has called on graduates of the programme to share their stories and participate.

Peter Aldrich, the organisation’s alumni and volunteer co-ordinator, said: “Outward Bound Bermuda runs a solid thread through the fabric of our community.

“I am constantly amazed at the sheer number of people that tell me that they went to Outward Bound when they were young.

“We want to connect with you and hear your Outward Bound story and celebrate our anniversary with you. You are part of our success.”

Outward Bound was brought to Bermuda in 1970 and sent young people overseas to take part in monthlong courses.

The aim was to help children with their personal development and physical health while engaging in adventurous activities.

The Bermuda Police Service, with the support of the Department of Youth and Sport, began running Outward Bound courses locally to give more young people an opportunity to take part.

A course was erected on Paget Island and the first cohort to use it arrived in July 1974.

More than 10,000 youngsters have taken part in local and overseas Outward Bound programmes, and hundreds of adults have used the Paget Island course for team-building exercises.

Outward Bound Bermuda, a registered charity, is supported by the BPS, the Ministry of Youth and Sport and, more recently, the Royal Bermuda Regiment.

• Peter Aldrich can be contacted on 535-5858 or by e-mail at ob.bda.alumni@gmail.com.