A YOUNG Exeter climber who once was lost at the top of a Lego clock tower is set to conquer new heights in a national competition.
Emma Nuttall is one of five youngsters who spend hours scampering up and down a cliff face in Exeter to be selected to compete in a British National Mountaineering contest in Scotland.
She is being joined by George Anning, eight, Zach Hill, nine, and teenagers Katie Acton and Anna Stone, who all regularly train at the Exeter Quay Climbing Centre based in the landmark electricity works building off Haven Road.
Although opened only 18 months ago, the centre has already won a reputation for its expertise, and sees about 250 youngsters take to the climbing wall every week.
And it has proved a great boon for Emma's parents Claire and Justin. Mrs Nuttall said: "Even when she was just three, Emma was always climbing trees, shower rails and everything else. We once lost her in Legoland and found she had climbed to the top of a Lego clock tower.
"I don't know where she gets it from, because neither Justin nor I can climb.
"As soon as the centre opened we took her along and she loves it. She makes it look incredibly easy. I had a go myself and my heart was in my mouth all the time. It teaches youngsters confidence, balance and they meet all sorts of different people. It's wonderful – and it keeps them all off the street too.
"I am really proud of her."
The five youngsters head for Edinburgh next month for the British Mountaineering Council final, having competed against more than 100 South West competitors over three regional rounds for the honour.
Each event is made up of three climbs attached to a rope and then three "boulder problems" which are tackled without a rope.
Delighted climbing centre owner and instructor Paul Russell, said: "All five are very good. They are judged on their style and judgement.
"There is no speed element involved."
