World-class climber tops graduation celebration

The event for UHI North, West and Hebrides takes place at the Nevis Centre in Fort William on November 7, following similar events in Thurso and Stornoway, and 650 higher education and further education graduates will be celebrated across the three ceremonies.

Dave MacLeod is a professional climber and coach based in the Highlands with over 30 years of experience. He is recognised as one of the world’s leading all-round exponents of the art.

He has made hundreds of first ascents across Europe but is best known for his groundbreaking climbs of Rhapsody on Dumbarton Rock and Echo Wall on Ben Nevis.

Dave is also a respected coach, blogger, vlogger and author, writing best-selling books on training and avoiding injuries which can end climbing careers.

Principal and Chief Executive of UHI North, West and Hebrides Lydia Rohmer, said: “We are honoured to welcome Dave to our graduation ceremony in Fort William.

"His pioneering achievements as a climber of global standing and respected author, and his commitment to training, coaching and lifelong learning are truly inspiring. Dave embodies many of the values we hope to instil in our graduates."