Students step in to help pilot project

The students from Harrogate’s Henshaws College, including two affected by sight-loss, spent the day at Malham National Park Centre outlining what they needed to help them enjoy, explore and experience the area more easily.

They tried out a range of interpretation equipment being developed, including Braille labels, and tested a new sensory audio trail along the Pennine Way to Malham Cove.

Meghann Hull, the YDNPA’s access development officer, said: “The authority has made a lot of progress over the years improving the rights of way network in the national park for people with limited mobility. The one thing we haven’t done much of though, is reaching out to people with sensory impairments and providing them with opportunities to enjoy and experience the special qualities of the national park.”

If the Malham pilot project, known as ‘Sense the Dales’, is successful national park chiefs hope to roll out the scheme to other areas and centres in the park.