IF you are currently unemployed and considering starting or developing a career in the outdoor pursuits industry, then Pembrokeshire is the place to be.

Tops is an organisation within the Prince's Trust's outdoor Activity Centre at Neyland and is currently the only place in Britain which offers a unique concept in outdoor pursuits training and support to instructor level specifically designed around people who are unemployed.

First funded by the European Social Fund and the Prince's Trust Cymru in 1999, a year later, Tops received a National Training Award from the First Minister, Rhodri Morgan.

Tops gives access to high quality training in kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, mountaineering, scrambling and rescue skills. Practical and theoretical sessions help students to gain personal skills, provide access to National Governing Body Award Training and Assessment courses and lead to opportunities for students to join expeditions and trips to other regions of the UK and the rest of the world.

The driving force behind the Tops team is Mountain Guide, Kayak Instructor and author Alun Richardson, whose recent book 'Instructing for Rock Climbers' was published last autumn. The Tops pedigree is further enhanced by Instructor Trevor Massiah, whose passion for pioneering and exploring exotic locations and his ability to win the odd surf kayak competition has further won him sponsorship by 5.10 Equipment.

"Developing skills for the job market is an area of the Trust's work that Tops takes one step further," explained Alun. The scheme recruits a wide section of the local community and has a special commitment to the unemployed...It's a fantastic opportunity to gain quality training and National Governing Body Awards."

Quality training, loan of equipment, grants towards personal equipment and financial assistance towards fees, fares and even creche facilities are just a little of what Tops can help with - but commitment and motivation from their members is as much an important factor in achieving goals, and members are expected to put in time in gaining personal experience in a variety of locations.

If you have the motivation, but lack the qualifications to become an instructor, you are unemployed, over 18 and living in Pembrokeshire then Tops could be for you.

Their 'Taster Day' on Thursday, February 14, at their base in Neyland offers an opportunity to find out more.

Anyone interested in taking part should contact Lesley Jones on (01646) 603130 for more information.