Special needs children in Plymouth Drake's Island Adventure holiday

Drake's Island Adventure Holiday for special needs children

This Westward TV film report by John Doyle highlights the importance of a special activity holiday for children with learning difficulties. In 1969 this type of holiday is offered children who when interviewed show their delight at the experience.

Drake’s Island was named St. Michael’s because they erected a church on it in 1135. A volcanic and limestone rock, Sir Francis Drake became governor of the island in 1583 and this gives the island its present-day name. Plymouth City Council obtained a licence for the Drake's Island Adventure Centre which was opened in 1964. The Mayflower Centre Trust operated the training scheme until 31 March 1989. It is now privately owned by former Plymouth Argyle chairman Dan McCauley.