April 27th was a fantastic day in the Columban Calendar – more than 150 graduates, supporters and members of the Columban Board and Team gathered at Ardoch Estate on the banks of Loch Lomond, to celebrate the inauguration of our second Community & International Leadership Centre.

Joining us at Ardoch was our patron, HRH The Princess Royal, who spoke with many of our graduates and guests, and joined with us for the raising of the Columba 1400 flag.

Over recent years awareness of the impact of Columba 1400's work has grown, and with it demand for our programmes. The need for further programme space, beyond our original Centre and Headquarters on the Isle of Skye, has become apparent. The solution to this need came when Peter Armitage, a long-time friend and supporter of Columba 1400, saw the stunning grounds and buildings at Ardoch Estate in late 2006. Peter (pictured above with Norman Drummond) arranged the acquisition of Ardoch for Columba 1400's use. This will be accomplished through building on the footprint of an existing barn.

Thanks to Peter's creative planning we hope to run full-scale leadership academies at Columba 1400 Loch Lomond from the beginning of 2009, on the completion of the new building. Meanwhile, the work of Columba 1400 on Skye and beyond continues apace as does our need for the programme funding that allows young people the opportunity of a lifetime.

There is no doubt that this magical setting, with stunning views of Loch Lomond and Ben Lomond will be an inspiration to every person who visits.

Please visit our Gallery for a selection of photos from the event, or visit our Web Album for the full collection of photos.