Celebrating 35 years!
Donate35 years Out There Together!
This year Open Country celebrates its 35th anniversary – a wonderful milestone that invites us to reflect on our achievements, look ahead to the future and enjoy the present.
What started as a small local scheme has now grown into a thriving charity with hubs in Harrogate, Wakefield, and Teesside. Open Country helps people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside together. This includes people with physical and learning disabilities, sensory impairments as well as those with mental health issues. Today, we deliver nearly 10,000 outdoor activity sessions each year – from tandem cycling to abseiling – reaching over 500 people with disabilities across Yorkshire.
With our motto “Out There Together,” we also advocate for countryside conservation and access. Over the years, our members have planted thousands of trees, cleared and opened up hundreds of miles of footpaths, and played a crucial role in protecting Yorkshire’s natural spaces.
Across its three hubs in Harrogate, Wakefield and Teesside, 28 activities are delivered each week. Last year the charity completed 247 conservation tasks and planted 2000 trees.
Help us celebrate - can you give us a birthday gift?
For 35 years, Open Country has been breaking down the barriers that shut disabled people out of the countryside and building pathways to freedom, confidence and connection.
As an amputee, trustee and passionate fundraiser, I know first hand the challenges many face, and the life-changing impact Open Country has. That’s why I’m calling on individuals, businesses and communities across Yorkshire to stand with us. Support our ‘’Accessible Adventures for All’ fundraiser and help us open the outdoors to even more people. Every pound raised raised is a step towards a more inclusive and empowered future where no one is left behind.
It has been an absolute pleasure fundraising for Open Country over the last few months. They’re a fantastic charity that makes a real difference in our community, and I am pleased to have played a part in supporting them.
It was great to meet some of the team and learn more about their work when I attended the launch of their new E-minibus. I’m excited to continue supporting their incredible work moving forward.
Events:
Fun in store! Saturday 12th July 11am – 4pm
We will be hosting a birthday stand at ASDA Harrogate, complete with a tombola, free Breakfree packs, and plenty of delightful surprises! We’d love for you to stop by, say hello, and help us celebrate – your kind wishes would make our day extra special!
Celebration Ceilidh Party. Saturday 18th October, 7pm – 10.30pm
We’re holding a celebration ceilidh to mark our 35th anniversary at St Andrew’s Church in Starbeck. We’ve got a great band called English Rebellion and the caller will make sure everyone can join in whatever your ability!
Tickets are just £5 and will include a light supper, with a licensed bar available. There is a quiet area available for anyone who wants to dip in and out of the fun. Tickets are limited – so please register your interest for what promises to be a fantastic evening of accessible fun. Email: info@opencountry.org.uk or phone: 01423 507227
We also need a couple of volunteers to help set up and clear up afterwards, so please let us know if this is something you can help with.
The church is in the centre of Starbeck with great rail and bus links – parking is available on nearby streets. Hope to see members, volunteers and friends there!
How you can get involved:
We’re asking our communities to help us as we celebrate this memorable milestone – our 35th anniversary! Be part of the next chapter in our story…
TAKE PART – Our activities are designed for people with disabilities to explore the outdoors safely and confidently. Join one of Open Country’s weekly outdoor sessions in Harrogate, Wakefield or Teesside – whether you enjoy countryside walks, conservation days or tandem cycling.
FUNDRAISE for 35 – Host a quiz night, bake sale, or take on a “35-themed” challenge. Every pound raised helps change more lives.
VOLUNTEER 35 Hours – Pledge 35 hours of your time! Whether you support the charity’s sessions, help fundraise, or offer skills behind the scenes, your time makes a real impact. We’re currently looking for conservation volunteers for our Wakefield Trailblazers and Nature Force groups; Weekend activity volunteers in Teesside, and Tandem volunteers for our Selby Tandem group.
DONATE £35 – Celebrate the charity’s birthday with a £35 gift. Your donation will directly support our work now and into the future. Donate today: givey.com/oc35thbirthday
GIFT a Prize – Contribute to our Birthday Auction by donating a prize: vouchers, hampers, experiences or services.
NOMINATE US – Put Open Country forward as your school, workplace or club’s Charity of the Year – and help us reach new supporters.
SHOP & SUPPORT – Use Easyfundraising when shopping online. Your favourite retailers will donate to Open Country at no cost to you – a simple way to give back: easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/opencountry
For more information, Contact Netty or Vera: Email: community@opencountry.org.uk
Get In Touch
Community House, 46 East Parade, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 5LT
Harrogate Hub: 01423 507227
Teesside Hub: 07848 257814
Wakefield Hub: 07426 716677
To understand how we will use your personal information, please read our Privacy Policy
Registered Charity No: 1107331 Company No: 5155859
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