View from the Chamber

LOCHABER Chamber of Commerce, representing the Outdoor Capital of the UK, is proud to support the Fort William Mountain Festival which runs from February 21 to 25 and marks the 16th year it has been held in Fort William.

The Fort William Mountain Festival exists to create and promote opportunities for people to share and find inspiration in mountain experiences, ideas and visions to promote the understanding and appreciation of the world’s mountain places and mountain communities.

Every February, festival audiences and participants are treated to inspiring presentations on a wide range of outdoor pursuits, adrenaline-filled and thought-provoking outdoor films, skills workshops and masterclasses from top instructors and an inspiring arts programme.

It is an important event for all local businesses as it attracts more than 2,000 people to the area over the five days and firmly places Lochaber as The Outdoor Capital of the UK.

It celebrates the mountains and the outdoor lifestyle that surrounds all of us daily, and encourages visitors to come back and enjoy the scenery and activities.

Well-known writer and broadcaster Cameron McNeish will be recognised for his contribution to mountain culture when he receives this year’s prestigious ‘Scottish Award for Excellence in Mountain Culture’ at a special event at the festival.

With biking, climbing and running and lots more besides, there is something for everyone with a taste for the outdoors. This year’s festival is presented in association with Nevis Landscape Partnership, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Lochaber Chamber of Commerce and the Highland Council.

Lochaber Chamber of Commerce represents businesses throughout Lochaber with a focus on encouraging economic growth, job creation and promoting Lochaber as a great place to live, work, study and visit.

For more information on this year’s Mountain Festival visit www.mountainfestival.co.uk