A young team of sports enthusiasts headed off on the ferry early this morning (Friday 19 May), for a two-day shinty adventure.

Camanachd Leòdhais said that 15 children from their youth squad would be getting immersed in competition and training, thanks to funding from Inspiring Scotland, a venture philanthropy organisation which matches private sector professionals with voluntary groups to help build a better Scotland.

Their funding has helped the youth squad get updated kit and has supported a packed programme starting today.

The young team start off with a game against their nearest rivals, Ullapool Primary School, who have an active shinty programme.

The Lewis youngsters will then be off to Balgate Park, Kiltarlity, for a tour of the grounds with Lovat Shinty Club, lunch and a game against high-scoring youth side Tomnacross, using Lovat’s facilities.

Team-building at Rollerbowl in Inverness will hopefully encourage some well-earned sleep before an early start on Saturday as they set off to Drumnadrochit to take part in a primary schools tournament.

Their weekend is rounded off with a trip to Castle Leod to watch Caberfeidh’s Premier League game, heading back to Ullapool straight after the final whistle.

A spokesperson for Camanachd Leòdhais said: “The trip of a lifetime for these up and coming youth players, which will raise their confidence, raise their awareness of the great game and they will also meet like-minded youth from across the country in a range of competitions!”

The travelling players are pictured in new kit at their final training session before setting out (Camanachd Leòdhais).