Youngsters get ready to scale heights

MORE than 400 young climbers were today set to converge on the city for an international event. The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena is to host the World Youth Climbing Championships, which are set to get under way tomorrow.

Competitors will utilise The Hanger, Speed Wall and North West Wall throughout the competition and take part in 12 categories split into age, gender and discipline.

Councillor Steve Cardownie, the city's festivals and events champion, said: "The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena is the perfect venue to host these exciting championships, which will attract competitors and spectators from all over the world and give a valuable boost to Edinburgh and Scotland's economy.

"The EICA provides excellent facilities for learner and professional climbers alike. It caters to ever-growing numbers of people, with 165,000 attending every year."