Gap Year Adventures

Young Leader in successful Alp’s venture

2008-04-15T16:43:00.002Z

The DES is always looking to encourage young leaders to fulfil their potential, that is why we spend so much time, effort and money on training young people to gain the right experience and qualifications.
James Thompson is yet another credit to the DES; his recent trip to Chamonix was a huge success. Read more on what the trip entailed...

Need training to lead your own trip? Contact Keith in the DES office for help and advice.
email: admin@leadingedge.org.uk

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Chamonix 2007: James Thompson, Chris Garrett, Richard Brelsford, Charlie Major

Once we arrived in Geneva we caught our mini bus to Chamonix and got ourselves settled at the Camping de la Argentiere campsite, just outside of Argentiere. We got up to date weather forecasts and route conditions, which were all superb up until Wednesday. It was an early finish for us all that evening, getting packed up and ready for an early start hitting the Tour De Glace tomorrow.
On Saturday, we left the camp site at 6.30am and walked up to Le Tour . It took us three hours to reach the refuge at 2700m’s .and the superb views of the Table de Roc and the Chardonet across the glacier. We then headed down to the Tour De Glace, which was a new experience for group members, and went through all the necessary skills for Glacier travel; crampon and ice axe skills to crevasse rescue and set ups. The descent took us two and a half hours and when arriving we were just in time to catch the bus back to the camp site, which I think the team was thankful of. That evening we sat back and relaxed at the camp site, cooking up dinner and going through the plans for tomorrow’s adventures on the Mer De Glace.
The main navigation problems on the trip came about on day two. We were keeping our eyes open whilst walking down the Glacier descent path for that right turn that takes you directly down to the Glacier, not down to the Ice Caves! Once on the right track the path changed into a series of ladders taking us down about 200 metres to the glacier.

The main training for the Mer de Glace was moving together when roped up, which took
us all the way up to the end of the Mer de Glace at the Les Chaux/Glace de Tacul joining point which was a grand lunch spot. During the descent back down the Glacier, the team practiced some more rescue techniques. This was followed by a couple of ice climbing sessions on some of the more easily accessible crevasses, which everyone got on really well with and I think started some new sport bugs. The lads were very keen for getting on some Via Ferrata routes during this expedition, so the climb back out the Glacier using all the ladders and foot pegs was much liked by all of them.

The Refuge was very busy due to a lot of companies bringing clients for training and acclimatising for their planned Mont Blanc trips.
Tuesday morning. We walked across the rocks to the glacier for as far as we could and then all had to get roped up and crampons and ice axes out.. As we approached the Signal Reilly, across some of the steeper terrain, everyone continued straight on but our ‘recky’ and navigation told us that for the traverse we had to head off North West under the mountain. After a quick thought web decided to go ahead with what we thought, trust our own navigation, which took us across some fresh terrain and the only people to ascend the mountain via this route. The route then traversed right under the mountain until we reached a small col that we had to climb up and over to get on the Plateau du Trient. Once on the Plateau we were exposed to all the winds which really dropped the temperature. From there the traverse continued across the West side of the mountain and across some great terrain with a mixture of good exposure, sustained steeper sections and some interesting crevasses and old snow bridges to cross. When moving across the Glacier a few groups members had some concerned thoughts and things to say about the noises coming from it from under there feet, and after explaining that it was the ice moving and cracking weren’t convinced we were on the right path!

Once we got round the mountain we were soon out of the wind and things became a lot quieter.
By the time we reached the final section on the climb, up to the summit of the Aiguille du Tour South Peak, most of the other parties were on there way back down. The final section crossed a fairly simple Bergschrund, traverse across to all the rocks and scree and then from there crampons and axes can be left and it’s a 30 minute scramble up to the summit, which luckily we had all to ourselves. The fellers were all really made up with reaching there first alpine summit and also how blessed with the weather we had been. After climbing back down to where we had left kit, then crossing the Bergschrund we made our way back down to the Tour de Glace via the Normal ascent route of the Aiguille du Tour.

The following day our routes were up the Tete Blanche and then Petite Farche. This involved a scramble with some steeper more exposed sections and the final part of the ridge involved a couple of patches of ice to climb whish gave the route some great variety. The climb of Petite Farche from the summit of Tete Blanche was fairly simple and just involved a short traverse with very little height loss and then a steep 150m face of snow to climb followed by a short scramble to the summit. Both summits gave brilliantly clear panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. From the summit of Petite Farche it took us under 1hour 30min to walk back down to the Albert refuge, traversing down just east of the Col Du Tour. Later that afternoon we began our descent back down to the valley via the West ridge. Descent was very sharp, 1hour 10min back down to Le Tour.

Thursday’s route started off by crossing the Glacier and then climbing a series of ladders to take us onto a track above the Glacier. The route lead us across the lower section of the La Charpoua Glacier and refuge and then traversed round until we were above the Leschaux Glacier and finishing our traverse at the Courvcle hut. After lunch we then began our descent back down to the end of the Mer de Glace, which like the ascent involved a lot of long ladders, foot pegs and metal platforms which were bolted to the rock face. On reaching the Glacier we had to walk from the Tacul/Leschaux joining point back down to the train station at the top of the lower end of the Mer de Glace. The route was a brilliant alpine walk, reaching a highest point of 2700m. The day’s route was listed as being a two day trek, but with an early start can be comfortably done in a single day and took us around eight hours to complete. Not much of a via ferrata route, as many guide books do list it, but a very enjoyable alpine trek.

On our final full day in Chamonix we had plans to do a Via Ferrata route known as Via Ferrata La Tour du Jalouvre. The route took us on a 5 hour round trip and offered a good mixture of both natural and aided climbing. Some sections of the route involved very steep and long ladder systems, sometimes over-hanging. Once higher up on the route we had several bridges to cross including a 16m suspension bridge.

James Thompson

Retirement of DES Chairman

2008-04-15T16:39:00.002Z

We are sorry to report that our Chairman James Rucker has retired from his role at the AGM held in April. We would all like to thank him for his service to the society over the last ten years.
James has been a Trustee of the DES since 1998, and Chairman of the Trustees and Management Committee since 2002, during which time he has been actively involved, not only with the management and direction of the Society, but also joining in Selection weekends, walks and other activities.
Brought up on a farm, James’s roots are deep in Dorset, and his wife’s family have owned land in the county for over two hundred years. They have three children and four grandchildren. Twenty-six years service in the army involved extensive travel throughout Europe and the Middle East, and after retirement James became Managing Director of the NAAFI, and managed the Froebel Educational Institute. Interests have included tennis, golf, hill walking, gardening and involvement in village activities. He has a passionate interest in the preservation of the countryside, and the encouragement of young people through leadership opportunities and adventurous experience.

James received a leaving gift of a camera and will be succeeded in his role by fellow trustee and good friend Colonel Brian R Anderson.

REC First Aid Course

2007-11-06T19:45:00.000Z

Rescue Emergency Care, (REC), is one of the UK's leading outdoor first aid training organisations. The qualification gained is an Emergency First Aid certificate, and is recognised by MLTB, BCU, and RYA . This is essential if you want to lead an expedition!

The next DES First Aid course will be held over the weekend of
Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th March 2008

For further details or to participate on the course please contact Sam Temple either by tel 01305 786066 or e-mail samtemple@samtemple.co.uk

Reflections on twenty years...

2007-11-06T19:31:00.000Z

With no expedition of my own to grapple with post new hip, I looked around for a summer trip. A beach holiday with Louise ?…no..she’d already made plans to go to Greece and I wasn’t invited !! Was it to be a month of DIY ? Desperation crept in as I lay awake pondering which shade of white to use. And then salvation arrived one evening in the shape of John Hegarty. The conversation turned to 1987 and the very first Ecuador expedition. I sensed that a mellow John, after a good dinner and several tins of Fosters, might be receptive to the idea of a 20 year anniversary re-union. I moved in. Who are your leaders John ? Before I got an answer I added ‘It’s 20 years since the first Ecuador expedition and do you need another leader’ John didn’t laugh. Hmm. In fact he immediately replied yes to the suggestion.
Ecuador is a beautiful country boasting high mountains, mystical cloud forests, the steamy rain forest and the Pacific Ocean in which to play. Tourists are flocking to the incredible Galapagos Islands. Small wonder that John loves Ecuador. The young people who took part in this expedition climbed high Andean peaks, mountain biked through canyons, experienced life in the rain forest, lived on the Pacific Coast and most importantly, met wonderful people.
Much has changed since my 1987 expedition. Ecuador now has the American dollar and its economy appears to be stable due to oil (and possibly drugs money laundering). The new President, Rafael Correa is a mate of the USA bete noir, Chavez of Venezuela so it will be interesting to see how the Americans react.
Ecuador is no longer at war with Peru. But it has Colombia as its northerly neighbour. On the journey to Coca, the gateway to our jungle experience, John’s instructions to the bus driver via Stephen our linguist were brief as we approached a border town; “TELL THE HALF-WIT NOT TO STOP”. Drugs and illegal migrant workers pore over the borders and we witnessed Ecuadorian jungle troops searching vehicles. Colombian troops have made forays into
Ecuador in pursuit of members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces ( FARC). This part of Ecuador is a dangerous place.
On our long bus ride to the rain forest we followed the oil pipeline as it snaked its way towards the depths of the jungle. On the River Napo, one of the tributaries of the mighty Amazon I was amazed to see barges carrying huge lorries most of which were petrol tankers. Speedboats carrying oil workers weaved their way in and out of the traffic like they were on a weekend seaside 'jolly’. The drivers had no intention of slowing down when passing our motorised dug outs. Getting these workers back on site was clearly the priority. I was informed that last year the Amazonian rain forest the size of Ecuador was cut down for soya bean production, logging and beef.
Parts of the old town of the capital Quito are now thriving where not long ago they were no go areas. Yet poverty is never far away and buildings are guarded day and night. Private security is a thriving business with guards look so young many must be on some sort of work experience programme. Armed with pump action shot guns and small arms worn in gun slinger fashion, I doubt that many have been trained in the use of firearms. But Quito is building a new airport and is definitely growing. Shopping Malls ( American style ) are springing up but they’ve yet to get a Starbuck’s, or brew decent beer.

Some things have not changed however:-

Old women in the villages carry ridiculous loadswhile their men amble alongside.
Bus drivers still overtake on blind hairpin bends.
There are more wild dogs than ever. Beingintercepted by a deranged canine while mountainbiking is not fun. At one point I had a pack ofmad hounds on my tail (much to John’samusement) Well aimed kicks while putting onthe gas saved the day
The Ecuadorians still drink Nescafe yet they export some of the finest coffee in the world!
A month drinking fizzy lager is not a pleasant experience for anyone save John.

Clive

Richard Backwell, MBE

2007-06-18T19:22:00.000Z

Anyone who has met Richard will testify that you won't meet a nicer guy. It seems that the Queen thinks so to - he has been awarded an MBE in her birthday honours (June 2007).

The award is for achievement or service in and to the community that is outstanding in its field; or very local 'hands-on' service which stands out as an example to others. In both cases awards illuminate areas of dedicated service which merit recognition.

Richard's work and commitment with the Greenhill centre and on his expeditions to Nepal, show that he does make an outstanding contribution and well-deserves this honour. Congratulations from everyone at the DES !!!!!!!!!!!

Here is an extract from his latest expedition to Nepal...

A Day to remember - East Lobuche peak 6119 metres

Two O’clock at High camp and right on time our soup arrives. Tim, Helen and myself have spent a reasonably comfortable night squashed together in a two-man tent. The three big guys have the luxury of the larger tent. At 3 am we begin the slow plod up the mountain and I am amazed at the ease with which the guides find the way by torchlight. The snow level is down to about 5,400 feet, but the going is easy and we have little difficulty negotiating a small rock scramble where a rope has been left for our protection.
At four thirty light appears and with crampons fitted we find ourselves crossing a snow ridge with a steep drop on one side. ‘How about roping it?’ is Helen’s sensible suggestion. Though not particularly scary, there are one or two in the group who have never applied an ice axe arrest in earnest.
Dhana and Lapka, our two climbing guides have gone up ahead to set up the fixed ropes and on reaching them I am struck by their similarity to my Mum’s 1950’s washing line. The problem is that this kind of rope kinks badly, so going first you have the problem of straightening the rope as well as moving up your prussic. In addition, the steep ice is brittle, resulting in many a slip so having reached the top of the two hundred foot rope,
Des suggests that Tim takes over the lead.
Our pace quickens slightly but there is one awkward move left on to the summit ridge. Dan kindly offers me a hand up. Two years ago I would have refused. Now at sixty-eight I willingly accept.
The final ridge looks easy but of course it is not and it takes a long time ascending the final fifty metres to the summit. The time is 10.30 am so the ascent has taken seven and a half hours . The views are fantastic. Ama Dablam, Pumori, Lhotse and of course Everest surround us and the ten minutes of relaxation at the top are moments to be treasured. The descent of the fixed
ropes is not much easier than the ascent and all of us slither and slide as exhaustion takes over. At the end of the fixed ropes, Des leads the way down, but the going through soft snow is difficult and Des falls over on numerous occasions.
At 3.30 pm, we reach High camp where a bowl of soup awaits us, the first food we have tasted in thirteen hours. By 4.30 pm, we have struck camp and have split into two groups. Bimal the two climbing guides and one porterare making their way down the Everest Trail with all the climbing hardware, while the rest of us who will later cross the Cho La Pass, are left in
the capable hands of Santa, Bimal’s deputy, to take us to the lodge at Dzongla.
The estimated time to Dzongla is three hours and normally Santa
would be moving off at a slow steady space. Not this time. Santa, who had stayed at High camp during our ascent, not only sets off at a quicker pace but seems reluctant for us to stop for a breather. The reason soon becomes evident. The mist has closed in; it is snowing and Santa is clearly uncertain of finding his way to Dzongla and wants to cover as much ground as possible before dark. At 6.30 pm and as darkness descends we find ourselves down by a river. Santa asks us to stay where we are while he searches downstream for a bridge. Helen, Tim and I meanwhile have looked at a map and feel that the bridge must be upstream, while Steve, our ex-Marine Officer survival expert is already talking with some relish of spending the night in a roofless, flea-ridden yak shelter.
At the same time, I am desperately worried about our two porters who left High camp at different times. Manech and Budhy come from Ghala, a village close to Bimal’s and neither of them have been in the Everest area before. Manech fortunately appears at the same time as Santa and having made a fruitless journey downstream, the two of them set off to try and find the bridge upriver. Twenty minutes later we see their torches on the other side and feel confident that the end is in sight. However, after ten minutes they reappear and Santa is
distraught. Unable to find the bridge, they waded across the river and now have freezing cold feet. I feel desperately sorry for Santa. This lovely man, who has looked after me on so many trips. Getting lost with his clients is to him a big disgrace and he is thoroughly dejected. But what a great group I am with. No one gets upset, everyone rallies round. Spare socks are found and Santa is assured that we will all pull through together.
At this moment there is a whistle and the flash of a torch above and we are relieved to hear Budhy’s voice. In spite of the snow he is sure he is on the track leading upstream to Dzongla and shouts to us to join him. Once on the track, it is Santa’s chance to regain face.
Leaving us with Manech, he sets off along the track and soon we see lights on the far river bank. Our confidence rises. Half an hour later two torch lights bobble along the track and an exhausted Santa and Budhy arrive with biscuits and hot black coffee-pure nectar! We make our way along in the dark appreciating how difficult it must be to find the way in such circumstances.
The lights of the Lodge appear and although the proprietor is happy to cook us a meal, all we can face is our third bowl of soup for the day. With no bedrooms available, we happily pile into a dormitory shared with the porters of another expedition.
10 pm we have been on the go for nineteen hours. I fall asleep dreaming of five star yak sheds.
Richard Backwell

Global Development Links - John Bainbridge

2007-05-28T15:04:00.000Z

After leaving Weymouth College in June 2004 John decided, like many people of his age, to take a gap-year before proceeding to university. After working and travelled in the Indian subcontinent for roughly six months, he returned to the UK with fresh ideas about his future career but more immediately about his degree.
After careful consideration he declined a place studying ‘Sports Science with Outdoor Education’ and began to look into the social sciences. It was not that his passion for the outdoors had been lost or even subdued – it was more a conscious decision to keep sport as a hobby rather than make it a livelihood. He applied and was accepted to study ‘International Development’ in London with and eye to making a living in the charity sector, ideally within Humanitarian Relief or Project Design. He is now at the half way point of his course and loving every second of it! The course is mainly focussed around the study of poverty and the developing world and includes a wide range of modules. From refugee studies to politics, economics, trade and history, this subject truly is lesson in the global issue that we all must face.

In the first week of his first term John stumbled across a student run charity called Global Development Links.
The project was mainly environmentally based working within deprived committees on reforestation programmes. Only accessible firstly by plane and then by speed boat, John and his group were truly isolated with no roads, phones or hospitals.
John firmly believes that he would not have had this opportunity offered him nor would he have considered undertaking such a task if it wasn’t for the experience and confidence that he had gained from the DES.
After returning from Peru John applied for the position of Director of GDL, was successful, and in October 2006, took up his new role. The position is difficult and demanding and requires roughly 25 hours a week work but he finds his passion for what they are achieving at GDL spurs him on. .Such commitment has received universal recognition, and John was recently presented to HM The Queen, where he spoke on the work of the charity.

GDL, much like the DES, is a non-profit driven charity that offers students the chance to get involved in overseas projects at a cost price. GDL is currently focussing its efforts on a project in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania that is in its third year of operations. Having recently received the backing of the Department for International Development (DFID) it is moving from strength to strength with over 15 volunteers going out this year to take part in the project.
Students must be over 18 and ideally have an interest in international development however this is not necessarily essential and the enthusiasm and willingness to learn top any other prerequisite. To find out more about GDLs projects or how to get involved please visit www.gdl.org.uk or email John at john@gdl.org.uk.

Ride over the Rockies in memory of Cara, 14

2006-08-05T12:35:00.000Z

Dorset Evening Echo, 5 August 2006 by Paul Greaves

BLUES music producer Tom Hopkins is planning a 600-mile charity cycle trip in memory of a Weymouth schoolgirl killed on holiday.
Tom, 60, will cycle through the Canadian Rockies later this month to raise funds for the Cara Weaver Fund.
Cara, 14, died in a cable car accident in 2001 while on holiday with her parents and brother in South Africa.
The Wey Valley School pupil had visited the first of Tom's blues summer schools for talented young musicians and following her death a fund was set up to provide bursaries for other youngsters to attend.

Tom, who has just retired from his job as a higher education consultant, said: "Cara was a talented musician, her death was an enormous blow to her family and friends, and a loss to the local music community.

"The Cara Weaver Fund was founded with the aim of raising money to support young people in achieving their ambitions - musical, sporting and educational.
"I've wanted to do this ride since I first saw people cycling in the Rockies while driving through them in 1989. I'd now like to use my bike to try and put some money back into the fund so that it can help more young people."
Tom will personally meet the £2,000 costs of the nine-day trip but is looking for people to sponsor him.
The Cara Weaver Fund has provided bursaries for young people to attend blues summer schools over the last five years and helped launch the Big Girls Blues' singing project for local women in 2005. All money raised will go directly to the fund.
If you are interested in sponsoring Tom, send your pledge to Gilly Weaver, Grove House, Osmington, DT3 6EZ, or email Gilly.Weaver@ btinternet.com
Cheques can be sent to Mandy Cockwell, The Wey Valley School, Dorchester Rd, DT3 5AN. Cash/cheques (payable to the Cara Weaver Fund) can be deposited at the HSBC Bank, St Mary's Street, Weymouth

Kenya Update: Building on success

2006-05-12T15:55:00.000Z

DES expeditions to Kenya started in 1999. Since then 7 student groups and 3 adult teams totalling 280 expeditioners have made a major impact in the Murugi location close to Mt. Kenya. As well as climbing Mt. Kenya to 16,355ft, River Rafting and Safaris in the Masai Mara the community project work has been remarkably successful.

The Baragu Health Centre has been open for 4 years now and 95% of the cost of the project has been donated by the Kenya expedition groups and the government have increased the nurse allocation to 7 to cope with the 100 patients a day who queue for treatment. Students on the Kenya expeditions have to commit to project fundraising and they have passed £45,000.

Budmouth Technology College students, parents and teachers have raised over half this total mainly through the efforts of the Duke of Edinburgh Award group and the Kenya Fundraising week – starting on 27th March – go along to support these events if you can.

2005 set a new record with 50 DES members going on the 2 expeditions to Kenya. One was a special team comprising students from Paignton Community College and South Devon College. South Devon College moved site at Xmas and the college Principal kindly donated large amounts of surplus equipment for our 3 supported schools in Kenya.

A sea container was loaded along with surplus books from Budmouth Technology College and the Easter 2006 adult group (team of 16) is going out to allocate the 4 tons of goods to Wiru Secondary, Wiru Primary and Gitare Primary Schools.

The global schools partnership between Budmouth Technology College and Wiru Secondary School was established 2 years ago and last summer Franklin Bundi, the Headteacher, visited Weymouth to further the link as well as participate in the Bridgenorth 22mile sponsored walk. He was really spying on our football training sessions but despite this our team won convincingly on Kenyan soil in August – maybe because the Kenyans were playing bare footed and we crippled a few!!!

A new link has now been created between St Johns Primary and Wiru Primary. John and Sally Horrell and Kimberley and Diamond Dukes are travelling out at Easter to develop the partnership. Josie Hastings and Kirsty Legg along with Budmouth Principal Dave Akers are also in the Easter team.

The Kenya 2006 team are well established and will again find themselves getting blisters from breaking rocks and mixing concrete for new classrooms as well as painting everything a delicate shade of Bermuda Blue!!!!

Plans are developing for 2007 and anyone interested in travelling to Kenya either for a short 2 week project based adult expedition at Easter or on the 4 week main DES trip in July/August is invited to give me a call on 01305 813012.

Martyn Hastings

New Trustee Colonel Brian R Anderson

2006-05-12T15:54:00.000Z

Brian Anderson was born in Woking in October 1947. He was educated at Tonbridge and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He was commissioned with the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards in December, 1967. After serving in a wide variety of appointments in the UK, Germany, Northern Ireland, Canada, and Cyprus, he assumed Command of the Regiment in 1987. He also had a number of appointments away from the Regiment, including the Assistant MA to the Adjutant General. He was Equerry to HRH, the Prince of Wales between 1985 and 1987.

After three years in Command of his Regiment, he filled a number of training appointments before serving in Bosnia and MA to the Commander of Operations. He then spent three years as the Senior British Liaison Officer to the U.S. Army in Europe, subsequently finishing his career as the Garrison Command in Osnabruck, Germany in December 2003.
Brian now lives in Tarrant Keynston near Blandford with his wife, Joanne. He is employed part-time with a charity in Salisbury.

He is a keen sportsman and used to particularly enjoy playing rugby. His current interests include all field sports, equestrian activities, as well as gardening. He is also an avid fitness trainer at the local gym.

Snowdonia Charity Challenge 17 June 2006

2006-05-12T15:43:00.000Z

Teams of four are invited to join this unique challenge to raise funds for REGAIN. The event is now in its sixth year.

The challenge starts in Llanberis from where teams set off on the first leg of a 40-mile circular cycling route around Snowdon.

Along the way they will have to climb Snowdon itself before completing the cycling section and heading for a grand finish across Lake Padarn in canoes.

Team members do not need canoe experience as rafted (roped together) Canadian canoes are used.

Three groups from Weymouth will be participating, this year. Dave Akers will be taking part, Mark Salmon is taking part in the Chesil team and Cat Freeman will be leading the Budmouth Technology College team.

Each team has to raise a minimum sponsorship of £1,800, so if you would like to contribute please contact the teams. Budmouth have a sponsorship website.
www.justgiving.com/Budmouth
http://www.justgiving.com/desregain2006

We wish them all the very best of luck!

Youth Matters

2006-05-12T15:40:00.000Z

There is a whole raft of government initiatives currently rolling out of the
DFES. Besides the Manifesto for Education Outside the Classroom (see page 7) the
Green Paper on Youth: Youth Matters aims to ‘..address key issues on how we
support and challenge our teenagers’.

The Young Explorers’ Trust is playing a pivotal role in persuading the numerous government committees of the worth of expeditions. Clearly the Forum that meets regularly under its aegis is having an effect on current thinking. According to the YETNEWS, the Green Paper ‘..makes it clear that there is a wish to move outside the box of ‘youth work’ and increase opportunities for youngsters to be alive to exploring new ideas’.

The first of the four key aims is to ‘engage more young people in positive activities’. Results can
best be achieved by ‘involving a wide range of organisations from the voluntary, community and private sectors’

The Green Paper states that ‘teenagers, their parents, and communities all want more positive things to do, and better places to go for young people’. Societies such as the DES already do that as do its members acting independently or working in schools.

Interestingly enough, Local Authorities often seen by many in the expedition world as being too defensive or down right obstructive are now expected to come on board by taking a major role in ‘commissioning’ developments. They will be encouraged to fund young people directly through ‘opportunity cards’. Further more they should set up ‘opportunity funds’ to spend on projects. The government has pledged £40 million capital funding from April 2006 for creative strategic investment in new youth facilities. The document can be viewed online visit: www.dfes.gov.uk/publications/youth

G4 Land Rover Challenge 2006

2006-05-12T15:27:00.000Z

Known as ‘the ultimate adventure’, the G4 challenge offers men and women from
eighteen nations the opportunity to match strategy, stamina and skill in an
awesome 4x4 driving and multi-sport challenge. Working in bi-national teams,
competitors are matched against each other across four consecutive stages
spanning Southeast Asia and South America.

The 2006 Land Rover G4 Challenge promises to be tougher and more spectacular than ever. This time the action starts amongst the intensity of Bangkok city, and ends at high altitude on the plains of Bolivia. In between lie thousands of miles of vehicle-based adventure, strategy and sweat. At the end of it all waits a new Range Rover for the winner, and the knowledge that they completed a tough test of both body and mind for everyone who competed in the event.

Over ten thousand people applied over the world to take park and only fifty of the UK applicants made it to the National selection weekend on Saturday 19th Nov. One DES member was lucky enough to be amongst those chosen. Here is Ed Flower’s account of what happened.

The brief:

I was told to register on site at Ordnance Survey grid reference SP164821. I had to be at this location no earlier than 0700hrs, and no later than 0800hrs on Saturday the 19 November. Late arrivals would be turned away. I arrived at 0705hrs, fashionably late.
We had been told to be prepared for activities including running, camping overnight, navigating, obstacle courses, 4 x 4 driving, vehicle familiarisation, kayaking, climbing and physical aptitude. We would be pushed to the limit, physically challenged and mentally tested.

We spent Saturday doing activity after activity from 9am to 3pm. These ranged from mountain biking through rivers to mental aptitude tests. It was non-stop physical and mental torture. Ok torture may be a little strong, but it was tough. As the challenge unfolded the tasks became harder; by far the worst was running through a brown muddy river up to my waist with ice floating around me: it was very, very cold!

It took me back twelve years to that chilly winter weekend in South Wales when I did my selection weekend for the Dorset Expeditionary Society. At eighteen I had been fortunate enough to take part in a similar type of activity. On my selection weekend for Moonlands 1992, I had faced physical challenge as well - I recall jumping into a river in South Wales in December then. Believe it or not, the experience in South Wales set me up.

When the G4 selection staff told you to do something you just did it. You never asked why. At the end of the day how bad could it get? Would I die? Well it truly did get very bad but, WOW, what a weekend! The highlight for me was driving a Land Rover Defender 110 through a river. (A highlight for two reasons: firstly it was an awesome experience driving off-road and secondly because I sat in the cab for a fantastic warm twenty minutes without being shouted at to push harder or dig deeper).

As 3pm arrived, it came to make the split: twenty-five people would remain to continue through to the night challenge and twenty-five would be forced to leave.

The film crew arrived, eager to capture the moment and in true TV fashion the original group of fifty contenders was split in two. Then the announcement came. I did not make the final stage. However it did not matter. From over 1,200 I had made the last fifty who could represent their county in one of the worlds toughest adventure races. I met some amazing people, some of the best adventure racers in the UK. I got to compete against them.

It was an amazing weekend that to be honest would never have been possible without the Dorset Expeditionary Society. Being able to list expeditions to India ,(92), Pyreness (94) and Ecuador (02, 05) on my application undoubtedly put me in contention. So a big thanks to all!!!….

Ed Flower

Churchill Fellowship Award for Mark Salmon

2006-03-06T13:22:00.000Z

The Dorset Expeditionary Society is proud to announce that Mark Salmon has been awarded a 2006 Winston Churchill Travelling Fellowships for his wilderness mountain biking youth expedition.

Mark is a teacher of physical education and teacher in charge of outdoor education at The Wey Valley School, Weymouth; he has taken part in and run many expeditions with the DES. These have included trips to Nepal, Colorado, Spain, French Alps and Mt. Rainier. Mark is very involved in the delivery of the outdoor and residential programme at the Wey Valley School.

Mark was part of the challenging June 2004 expedition to Alaska, where he and fellow teachers Ollie Bray and Clive Burgess climbed Mount McKinley (Denali) to raise funds for the Claire Clements Trust, which provides a hardship fund to young people who want to take part in expeditions but who otherwise could not afford to participate.

Denali is the highest mountain on the North American continent and the tallest mountain in the world. The vertical relief of 5,486m between its base to the summit at 6,194m is greater even than that of Mount Everest. Denali is situated in the Alaska Range in the USA.

Mark is keen to encourage student interest in his trips and maintains hi-tech websites that allow students to follow his adventures.

For details on the Denali expedition see: www.geographyataltitude.co.uk
For his forthcoming Colorado expedition see: www.bikecolorado.co.uk

For more details on applying for Churchill Fellowship Awards see the website: www.wcmt.org.uk

The 2007 categories are due to be announced on Monday 5 June 2006. If you would like to register to receive notification of the 2007 categories, please click here.

More news from Nepal

2005-12-28T11:52:00.000Z

Richard and his team have just returned from another successful expedition to Nepal.

A full report will follow, but for those who can't wait here are some photographs from the trip.

1) Another village that hopes to benefit from some help in the coming year with an improved water supply.

2) Small water reservoir built with last years money to ensure a clean and constant supply for the village.

3) General view of the village.

4) The zenith of Richard's long career in public service, opening one of the two new new loos that were also done with last years contributions.

5) Brian Willett presenting money to the secondary school.

6) Presentation of gifts and money at the primary school In picture Avis Pitt and Angela and Bimal.

The Risk Debate: What are they saying ?

2005-11-07T10:13:00.000Z

PM Tony Blair speech 26th May 2005

“……something is seriously awry when teachers feel unable to take children on
school trips, for fear of being sued ……”

Ruth Kelly, Secretary of State for Education said:

“The majority of schools already offer a range of outdoor learning including
school trips that enrich the curriculum, build confidence and increase
skills.“However, we know that some schools and staff would like re-assurance
about their responsibility for pupil safety. ( and, ipso facto, expedition
leaders )
“We want to make sure that all school staff have the confidence to
continue offering these experiences and that everyone involved in a school trip,
including parents, are aware of their rights and responsibilities.”

With the new guidance in place the Government would like to see school visits become an important part of a young person’s education. This will be a key aspect of the new Manifesto for Education Outside the Classroom to be launched in the new school year.

Bringing together a range of stakeholders, the Manifesto will:

set out a joint commitment that all children should have the opportunity of a wide range of high quality outdoor learning, including at least one residential experience
encourage schools to partner with other schools and outdoor learning providers
encourage parents to take an active interest outdoor learning
set out a range of advice and support; provide information and good practice guidance on health and safety issues
and set out priorities for the development of outdoor learning.

Around thirty partners from across the outdoor learning sector have already been involved in early Manifesto discussions. They will work together to establish a broad range of priorities for helping schools to improve the range and quality of education outside of the classroom.
The DES working in partnership with the YET will contribute to the development of the above aims.

Overseas Expedition Leader Development

2005-11-05T11:15:00.000Z

The 3rd Young Explorers’ Trust Forum was held at Buxton in April. Clive Burgess represented the DES.

The aim of the forum is to bring together the expedition providers both commercial and voluntary to share information and good practise. The DES young leader development programme was featured and scrutinised by forum members. Draft proposals for an Expedition Leader Development Plan offering a seamless and progressive route through the tiers of leadership were produced and will be further developed at the next forum.

The DES has always seen the mentoring of its young leaders to be the cornerstone of its programme. This summer, Emily Andrew led a peer group climbing in the Dolomites; with her went Catherine Freeman another fine young leader who impressed the expedition panel of the YET and DES with her plans for Peru. Another member, Clare Davenport who teaches at Shaftesbury, is beginning to develop a programme within her school (read more about these three in this edition).

The partnership between expedition providers is essential; the reasons are apparent. A series of high profile incidents leading to the deaths of young people both in the UK and abroad has only served to fuel the argument that there should be more controls put upon expeditions using the licence method currently employed.

"The activities run by adventure programs involve risk and danger, but so does
everything else in life! The presence of danger gives rise to risk, and
risk of one of the critical components that makes adventure programming popular
and successful. State-of-the-art safety procedures are used to reduce the real
dangers, yet keep desired perceived risks high. Therefore, balancing risks
and safety is a central paradox....research has repeatedly shown that adventure
activities are significantly safer than most other traditional physical
activities."

Priest & Gass, 1997

Yet deaths of young people* on adventure trips is tragic and stirs up a media frenzy. The highest injury/fatality statistics are related to wilderness, expedition-based outdoor programs. These rates, however, are still quite low and equivalent to school physical education programs and sport, but less than the risk of injury in contact sports.

There is a perceived threat that if the ‘industry’ does not produce a self-regulation plan, then the government will impose regulations and with it the inevitable outside inspections. Thus the YET forum is determined to show that as responsible youth expedition providers, we are keen to contribute and sign up to standards that ensure the safety of our young people.
* The Health and Safety Executive report on the tragic death of Max Palmer in Glennridding Beck May 2002 while on a school trip can be read. Its website is www.hse.gov.uk type in Education then click on School Trips

Rescue Emergency Care (REC) First Aid Course

2005-11-05T10:16:00.000Z

How often do we all leave the house for an afternoon stroll in the sun or to walk the dog, spend a weekend away, in Dartmoor or North Wales, coming back with memorable experiences…? How often do we not even consider how different these experiences may have become?

A falling rock, a trip over a stray branch or an unexpected turn of the weather are all possible occurrences we may come across within our hobbies. Enjoyable, relaxed situations unfortunately have the potential to change into medical emergencies and the harsh reality is that there isn’t likely to be a fully-fledged paramedic conveniently walking past.

Having to cope with the situation can be a stressful experience. Would you know what to do?
On the weekend, 9-10th April, twelve DES members congregated for the Rescue Emergency Care level 2 First Aid course. Fingers crossed for good weather, we set out to embark upon a weekend of discovery. Despite the early morning our two instructors, Russ and Ian, managed to appear bright and breezy, coaxing life into us as we learnt about how to cope in emergency situations. Hands-on experience played a large part within the course and local residents must have been concerned by the large number of bandaged casualties that kept appearing all weekend!!

The first day we learnt a lot of useful theory, and the structure of the course gave us a good opportunity to meet new people. The final afternoon however, was the best bit of the weekend…. After developing our knowledge we were given the opportunity to put all our skills into practice. Split into groups, casualties were taped and stickered to represent afflictions such as fractures, sprains and even diabetes. We were challenged to identify and treat our casualties in many different situations and even though we all noted how stressful the situation was, we all realised just how much we had learnt over the weekend.

The course was tailored towards outdoor experiences. Considerations about the different strategies needed if an incident occurred while we were in the middle of nowhere, made everyone think. You’d be surprised at the amount of stuff within your rucksack that can be adopted for a first aid purpose!!

The First Aid course provided a thoroughly enjoyable weekend and boosted our confidence no end. Although we all hope that we will never need to use these skills, being prepared is a serious advantage.

I would thoroughly recommend the course to anyone, not only do you learn vital life saving skills but you also have a lot of fun. Many thanks go to Sam Temple for organising the course and for providing the well-needed sustenance used to fuel us through the weekend!!

Mel Power

2006 Christmas Ball

2005-10-17T08:44:00.000Z

DORSET EXPEDITIONARY SOCIETY

CHRISTMAS BALL

Wednesday 21 December 2006

Weymouth & Portland Sailing Academy

7.30pm for 8.00pm

Cost tickets £22 per person

Ticket information available from admin@leadingedge.org.uk write 'Ball ticket request' in subject line. Or telephone 01305 775599.

If you would like to volunteer to help with Ball preparations, please contact emilyandrew6@hotmail.com

Trans Andes trip sees SEVEN reach summit

2005-08-10T13:44:00.000Z

Here's the latest news from the Trans Andes Expedition:
After two weeks of successful biking and trekking, seven of our young explorers have made it to the summit of Illiniza North (5116m).

A picture of the group on the summit.

Find out more about Illiniza Norte:

Ed Flower also made a successful attempt at Cotopaxi and accompanied by a guide he climbed the active volcano hours after returning from the Illiniza climb. Photographic evidence below:

And they're off!

2005-07-24T18:35:00.000Z

Summer is here again and the expedition teams have left to explore the wild corners of the globe.

Ollie Bray's team were first to go; they left at the start of July for a month in the Alaskan White Mountains.

Emily Andrew's team heading off for the Dolomites (Via Ferrata) in mid-July, for just over two weeks' climbing and exploration.

John Hegarty's team left for the trans andes just a few days ago. We look forward to some live reports on this blog from them, once they manage to get to an internet cafe.

Martyn & Josie Hastings' team are heading off to Kenya within the week and we look forward to more updates on the Baragu Health Centre building project,the Gitare Primary School and The Wiru Secondary School.

Hope it all goes well, guys.

Nepal 2004 - Second Instalment

2005-05-10T18:31:00.000Z

Sunday 31st October

Early start to visit the Hindu temple on Lake Phewa Tal. Eleven of us in one boat was a bit dicey but we make it without mishap! After breakfast at the hotel we climbed into an old bus to head for Dumre. Good lunch stop and then an even older and smaller bus was push-started to take us on the last leg of our trip. We sung along as we bumped over potholes for two hours. There seemed to be a leak from the clutch’s hydraulics which resulted in a few stops, but we always got going again. The scenery was beautiful, paddy fields with villagers working away and plenty of bullocks to add to the scene. The track soon became a narrow windy path climbing up the hillside and then on a narrow part we came across a muddy pothole where we became firmly stuck. Out we climbed and left it to the experts! The problem being that the engine was lying on a large stone. Lots of locals appeared with tools and advice but the hero was the driver who climbed under the bus and worked away lying in the mud ably helped by his assistant. The land rovers came up behind with our luggage and Howard, as there was no room for him in the bus. 45 minutes later we were off. We couldn’t drive right up to Okhle but all of us (except Howard) walked the last half hour up a steep hillside. Once there we were greeted by the villagers with garlands and a band played welcoming music. Seated under an awning we were served a meal of rice bread, beans and boiled egg, washed down by sweet tea. Then came the task of putting up 10 tents as it grew dark. After that we had beer and wine whilst our toilet facilities were being dug! Then a surprise – a large meal prepared by the cook. Soup and popcorn, rice and curried veg and pasta followed by banana fritters. And so to bed!
Cathy

Monday 1st November

Early to rise with a fantastic view over the valley. The cloud was low and the hills peaked up through it. At 8.15 a.m. we went to the standpipe for the ‘opening’ ceremony. Richard made a speech and presented the photograph album to Dewdoj and cut the red ribbon and the water supply was declared open. After an explanation of how the money was spent – in Nepalese – Bimal gave a short speech of thanks and said we were all welcome back as friends any time we wished. The ceremony was conducted by the head man of the village, Dewdoj, and his speech of thanks and welcome was translated by Bimal. Then the ladies served tea and biscuits before we returned for breakfast. Afterwards we left for a tour of the village and the water system. We went to the five new standpipes, saw the two storage tanks and then climbed up to the source of the water. As we walked round the village we visited Bimal’s mother’s house. Sunita took us inside and showed us a typical old house – which is going to be rebuilt next year. We were offered a cup of buffalo milk by Bimal’s mother.
We then climbed up to the secondary school which is perched up at the top of a steep hill. What a surprise awaited us. About 500 children had turned out to welcome us forming a guard of honour and handing out flowers. We were then greeted by various members of the committee and the headmaster. The men received hats and the ladies received purses, bracelets and necklaces and of course, garlands. We were entertained to music and dancing and Richard made a speech before Richard White presented the money for the school. After lunch, served in one of the classrooms, we watched the heats of the football tournament. After a delicious supper which included the cockerels we’d seen earlier in the day, the Mothers’ Committee came to the camp and entertained us to singing and dancing and we all had to join in. After the presentation of gifts and money the ladies left for their homes.
Cathy pp Mike

Tuesday 2nd November

Woke at 4.45 a.m. to meet at 5 a.m. with all those who want to walk up to the view point above the secondary school. 12 managed the walk and they were treated to a spectacular view of the sun rising over the mountains. We had a good view of the Annapurna range (South, Fishtail, Anna 1,2,3,4) plus 26 others. Return for leisurely breakfast. At 9.30 walk to primary school. Bag full of goodies given to school and £400 cash. About 45 children and headmaster and assistant plus many locals greet us at the primary school with flower garlands. Many photos taken and tea and biscuits provided. We all signed a book at the school and walked round the classrooms, 3 in number. The building was opened in 2004 by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas who helped provide the money. Richard 1 agreed to provide about £40 for some books for the school.
We walked on to next village at Ghalegaun about 45 mins walk. Good view of Manaslu mountain. Arrived at village – more garlands and flowers plus oranges to eat and tea and biscuits.
Big excitement, Howard bitten by leech – no problem but more serious – Jo bitten by leech under big toe – very nasty.
Entertainment started, music, dancing etc. we had a dance, locals laughed. We left and inspected their school. Richard discussed books with Head, seems to want to supply books to all the schools in the valley!
Arrived back at camp, great excitement – the loos have moved!!
We have lunch and relax all afternoon. Howard, Des Keith (big) gone up to watch football.
After dinner young persons’ committee entertained us with singing and music, finally cash for new toilet and gifts were given and late to bed. 10.p.m.
Paul

Wednesday 3rd November

Up at 5.30 a.m. Our last day under canvas at the village. All went well with packing – until I realised I had misplaced my body belt which contained my passport; instant ‘panic’ but luckily Clive had found it outside the men’s toilet at 0315 a.m. Guess who was ‘relieved’?
After breakfast we had farewell committee from the village who gave us all flowers and the women were presented with a shawl and the men with a Nepalese hat.
After a half hour walk we joined our first bus, which took us to Dumre, a two and a half hour journey. Then a transfer to a second bus. Now I have experienced a number of unusual bus journeys in my time but this one takes the’biscuit’. This was a two hour journey over which must be the roughest road in Nepal. We arrived at Chitwan National Park at approx 14.15 where we were ferried to the Island Jungle Complex. After lunch we were split into two groups. Mine was to take part in a walk through the island by a guide to see birds and insects. We returned by boat on which we viewed a beautiful sunset.
Dinner at 20.00 hrs, in bed by 21.30.
Keith Tubbs

Thursday 4th November
Island Jungle Resort – Chitwan National Park

Leech count for the day –
Clive 2 Ruth - Richard 6 Judy B. – Sandra 1 Jo – Big Keith 1

Des 2 Ros 3 Angela - Richard W - Little Keith - Howard -

Judith 2 Mike 3* Cathy 2 Paul 3 Richard J 1 Frank - Louise –
Total 20 – only 1 making contact.

Shake at 0530, muster at 0615 for Jungle Walk for 1 group (mine) and elephant ride for second group. Jungle group saw 1 millipede but were alert at all times with correct evasion routine firmly in mind – 3 metres up a tree (?) or behind a big tree or run in zig zags for rhino. Look firmly in the eye whilst backing away (do not run) for tiger and who knows what for bear! A momentary excitement was had when a couple of wild boar (?) crashed out of the undergrowth and then across the path ahead of us.
Breakfast, a short break during which we could actually see in our cabins, so could get properly sorted out. Mike found a large leech attached to his stomach – yuk! Then elephant ride and river trip for the first group, bird watching for the second.
I am ashamed to report that Ros, Des Mike and Cathy rebelled and refused to get back on an elephant so we walked instead. Big mistake. The leech count increased and we were so concerned about our boots and trousers that we saw very little. We looked like members of some secret society – so firmly were we secured at neck, wrist, ankles and waist, with hats and sunglasses. We were also boiled. We did look up long enough to get a very good sighting of a rare grey headed eagle (most often seen only in Chitwan) and an Indian pond heron.
With relief we took to the board and were landed 2 minutes later on the other side to see a rhino bathing. He was very content and all attempts to encourage him to stampede us failed.
Return on river – wonderful with several water birds spotted. Drinks on balcony overlooking river. Coffee ran out and a coach load of Taiwanese tourists arrived. (The guide had suggested another short activity before lunch, but looked at our faces and said no more.)
Lunch – an unseemly scraping of chairs in a rush to beat the Taiwanese to the buffet (except Des who won’t queue, so had to put up with what was left.) Food was very nice.
1430 – watched the elephants (4) bathing in the river with their amazingly agile drivers/keepers. (Apparently the driver stays with the elephant for life.) A few guests joined in.
1530 – a birdwatching walk. We were really enjoying ourselves and saw a bright minivet and a yellow coloured oriole as well as many others. Then 4 of us discovered leeches – most well past our knees and after that we were all eyes down again – not ideal for bird watching.
The hot water came on at about 1700 when it was still almost daylight and the sunset was spectacular.
Just when we thought that all the excitement was over for one day, we were treated to stick dancing before supper by a group of local young men. Richard B was invited to join them and represented the group and the U.K. in a most energetic manner for around 15 minutes.
The final thrilling thing of the day was that lights didn’t go out until around 2125.
Ros

Friday 5th November

Journey back to Kathmandu
A short boat ride was followed by an 8-hour coach journey to Kathmandu. The first 2 hours of which was the nightmare stretch to Mugling (see Keith Tubb’s entry for the 3rd for a full description). Arrival at the Hotel Vaiishallii with everyone knackered.
Out at 1915 for our evening meal at the Gorka Restaurant. Highlight of the night was the dwarf dancing which captured the imagination. Keith Tubbs was left on the dance floor gyrating with the ‘lady in pink’. Will he be seen again?
Des

Fines (Rupees)

Des 350
Ros 250
Richard 1st 100
Judy 250
Richard 2nd 50
Mike 200
Cathy 150
Paul 100
Howard 350
Clive 350
Ruth 50
Keith (big) 50
Sandra 150
Frank 100
Louise 100
Judith 100
Keith Tubbs 100
Jo 250

Saturday 6th November

Our usual early start. Met in the foyer at 0545 to await arrival of Bimal and transport to the airport for the Everest flight. Fourteen of us had opted for this excursion, six had a lie-in, including Bimal! His ‘fine’ was to pay the balance of the drinks’ bill last night. (What happened to little Keith at the club, he was last seen dancing on the stage with one of the girls?) The usual confusion at the airport, typical for East Asia, you even had to pay an airport tax for an internal flight – 165 rupees. Our aircraft was a Beech 1900 with a seat either side of the central isle – everybody gets a window seat! Of course the views over the mountains were fantastic, Everest was very clear as were all the rest. Unfortunately the aircraft windows were quite dirty outside so photography will be a bit hit and miss I think. We all had a visit to the cockpit where the view was much better. Nobody touched any of the knobs or switches! A bad landing was expected – well they dished out the sick bags just before we landed! A certificate was also issued to commemorate the trip however I’m sure the impressions we formed of those majestic mountains will outlast any certificate. The rest of the morning was spent repacking again ready for our departure this p.m. What a holiday, so many different impressions – people, places scenery! The remainder of the day, until we departed for the airport was spent shopping and wandering around the area of the hotel. In the afternoon we went, proceeded to the airport and joined the throng attempting to actually get into the terminal. We put up a brave show of typical British skill in queuing and keeping the French out. FINALLY after three security checks we boarded our flight for Abu Dhabi.
Richard Jones

Sunday 7th November

Here we are back at Abu Dhabi airport. We have six long hours to while away and it’s early in the morning. Time to chat, drink, eat and wander round the shops – a great cappuccino, it reminds me of Hamilton’s.
We eventually board the plane and the long, long flight back to Heathrow begins. Time to doze, sleep, have dinner, crisps and breakfast and watch the same film that had been shown on the previous flight! Everyone feels weary, tired, bedraggled and exhausted. Home still seems a long way away. At last Heathrow and a typical grey misty November day. The coach is a welcome sight and soon we are driving through beautiful countryside. Autumn has arrived and colours are wonderful. Back home safely and Nepal already seems like a dream.
During 2004 we spent many happy hours discussing our proposed holiday to Nepal. The entire holiday was way beyond our expectations and was full of contrasts. Kathmandu is a lively vibrant city surrounded by rubbish, pollution and noise. The Nepalese countryside, that we saw, was beautiful – steep sided, deep valleys, rushing rivers, green and lush. Even the weather had its contrasts – there was pollution over Kathmandu, snow on the mountains, mist in the valleys with the hills peeping through and wonderful, clear, blue, sunny days.
Farewell to Nepal. It was a holiday, an adventure and experience but most of all it is a memory of a warm, friendly and welcoming people. Judy

Nepal 2004 - First instalment

2005-05-10T18:24:00.000Z

Expedition Team:

Judy Backwell
Richard Backwell
Clive Davies
Ruth Davies
Angela White
Richard White
Keith Diment
Sandra Jones
Howard Legg
Cathy Pressley
Mike Pressley
Paul Nicholson
Frank Swinton
Louise Bainbridge
Judith Townsend
Keith Tubbs
Jo Wright
Ros Evans
Des Evans
Richard Jones

Thursday 21 October

I can’t believe that for the second time this year we have to get up at some unearthly hour – 0330 for our coach to Heathrow!! Golly, it’s here – no waiting. “Morning” – says everyone as they board and “Did you get any sleep?” Good journey – how does everyone do the motorway run daily? – a nightmare of traffic.
Gulf Air have just herded us through and number 13 was not the best desk to choose as we certainly confused the desk ‘lady’ with two group bags and will we ever see our bags again? Loads of expensive and very smart shops to visit – where is W. H. Smiths? – We want a Telegraph. Plane overbooked as usual, but hopefully we have seats – we’ll go and find out…. Good flight and lovely curry – bit of ‘shut eye’ – quite roomy at rear end of plane really. Leg 2 from Bahrain to Abu Dhabi only 40 minutes but still managed a light snack - not very full though - time to spare at Abu Dhabi airport – gold by weight – few other trips visible – Explore, KO Adventure – Everest Base Camp and Annapurna in evidence. Managing to stay awake and sign off at same time – not much to say for first day, except - isn’t it great to be here and everyone is looking forward to a super trip.
Angela

Friday 22 October

Abu Dhabi. First time flying what an experience. Thought I would be nervous but enjoyed every moment. Agony hours in the air but so much to take in. Too much of everything including food. Looking forward to arrival in Kathmandu.
Keith

Arriving at Kathmandu we found that some of our baggage had not made the arduous journey with us and remained in Heathrow. Never mind it would catch us up tomorrow and Bimal was there to greet us with garlands and whisk us off to our hotel. Showing great resilience we were down hitting the streets of Kathmandu after only a quick shower. We soon found the friendly Kathmandu Guest House and ground to a halt drinking tea in their garden whilst waiting for prodigious amounts of cheese on toast to arrive. The town was actually quiet because it was festival time, all the locals were celebrating the throwing out of demons, seemingly both Hindu and Buddhists joined in.
After a few beers at the KGH we gave into a short sleep only to be revived by Howard’s offer of gin and tonics. After dinner at the hotel only a few stalwarts (led by Clive) made it back to the bars. Some of us thought we had had quite a long day.
Judith

Saturday 23 October

Quite a busy day! Four world heritage sites in one tour. First it was a Buddhist Temple high on a hill. It seemed to be commonly known as the Monkey Temple and we saw why. It was magnificent with all the flags fluttering. We learnt about Stupas and the significance of the Buddhas. It was good to see the Hindu Temple alongside coexisting peacefully.
Next we were off to a Hindu temple (Pashputirath), centre of much celebration for the festival today. We could only peer inside to see the huge holy bull. We saw the funeral pyres along the river and the (Sadhus) Holy Men posing for their photos.
Then on to Bhaktapur and the Durbar Square temples with their amazing wood carvings, before a much-needed lunch. We ate more curry and looked at the view over the square before completing our tour through some of the backstreets. Many houses were so cracked and broken down we felt we should wear hard hats especially as occasionally ‘substances’ (were thrown) fell from the upstairs windows.
Back on the bus to Kathmandu, we dropped off those stoic few who had to collect luggage – successfully thank goodness. Then as the sun sank we walked the pilgrims’ circuit around the largest Buddhist stupa (Boudha) and climbed to the top. Having turned a few prayer wheels we felt we had earned our dinner at Kathmandu Guest House.

Sunday 24th October

Today we leave the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, not without a few traffic problems. We make the long (8 hour/200km) journey to Pokhara through numerous checkpoints. Through wonderful scenery our driver steers us safely passed avalanches and crashed vehicles.
We have pleasant stops for drinks and lunch in shady gardens of wayside restaurants. What a relief to arrive in Pokhara though after passing the first views of the Annapurnas. Pokhara is pleasant and relaxed after Kathmandu and we enjoy a wander along the lakeside through the shops. Dinner in town is multinational to make a change from curry. At least Richard got his mo-mos at lunchtime.
Judith

Monday 25th October

An early breakfast for some was superseded by those who took a walk to the lakeside and saw a cloudless Annapurna range behind Pokhara.
A rickety twenty two seater took thirty of us into the foothills and deposited us at Nayapul where our trek began.
Through villages with shops on either side, we made our way downwards until crossing a river by suspension bridge we turned left and followed the Bhuring Khoda upstream in blazing hot sunshine.
For ever having to look down because of the varying nature of the footpath, it was sometimes difficult to take in the marvellous scenery and lush vegetation around without stopping.
We stopped at Ramgai hot and thirsty and were greeted with all the fresh green oranges we wanted. This was followed by spinach pasties and then fresh fruit and Nak cheese.
Just as we were ready to depart, we experienced wet rain! (Des should be fired, he was the only one without his wet gear in his day pack).
Walking and climbing further was trying as it was humid and sweaty.
Finally, we arrived at the Indra Guest House where we were pleasantly surprised to find the showers were both solar and gas powered. A convivial queue developed outside since there were only two.
Beer and games were followed by dinner with porters playing their drums and singing in the yard outside, the weather having cleared.
Our first day on the trek and no Delhi bellies or broken bones. We are raring to go!
Howard

Tuesday 26th October

It wasn’t too cold for our first night sleeping in a tea house. Most people seemed to have had a disturbed sleep because of dogs barking and mule trains coming up and down the nearby path.
At 0700 we had our first taste of porridge and trekking honey. We were all packed and we left Tirkedhunga Lodge at 0800. The path led down at first over a fast flowing river and then climbed steeply from then on. We passed by a number of tea houses painted in bright colours with colourful gardens. Coming down the hill were many young children presumably going to school. After two hours trekking we stopped at Ulleri (2000m) for a well-earned cup of lemon tea. It was very hot at this point and we were in need of refreshment and a rest. Soon after we left Ulleri we came across a group of men dragging a dead horse down the path.
It started raining about an hour before we stopped for lunch. We had lunch at Nayathanti (2450m) where we had a vegetable soup followed by mo mos and chips, then fruit salad and yoghurt:- all washed down with lemon tea.
It was raining hard when we left so we all put on waterproofs again. It was noticeable that the vegetation was changing. The terraced rice and maize fields gave way to very mature woodlands of rhododendron trees festooned in moss.
Still we climbed until we reached out overnight stop in Ghorepani (3000m). Boiling hot showers were available to the first few customers. When it got dark we realised that the village had no electricity and hadn’t had any for about two years, since a transformer became defective. Despite this head torches were switched on and candles lit to illuminate the card and domino games that have become a feature every evening. The evening meal was produced in a freezing cold kitchen lit be candles. We are always amazed at the quality and diversity of the food provided under such adverse conditions.
It was noticeably colder this evening and most people had several layers on. There was a wood stove in the centre of the dining room, but it could only warm the people sitting nearest to it.
Bimal told us that “wakey wakey” would be at 0445 tomorrow so we all had an early night.
Frank

Wednesday 27th October

Although it was very cold night everyone seemed to be quite warm. Sleep was intermittent owing to the swillings of toilets, raucous coughing and the occasional snoring. We expected a 4.45 a.m. call from Bimal. The plan was to leave at 5 a.m. to climb Poon Hill, to see the sun rise over the mountains. However, too much cloud gave us a good excuse for another hour or so in bed.
We ate breakfast outside and set off at 8.30 a.m. The sun was out and we were in high spirits. We had not had a meeting with the Maoists (which had been expected yesterday) but I think many of us had forgotten about it. Within half an hour of walking we were approached by a young man. Some of the group had already walked on but a few people remained behind whilst Bimal paid over 1000 rupees for each of us. However that wasn’t enough on this occasion. After listening the Maoist talking at Bimal, we understood that not only did he want money but also any binoculars and mobiles in our possession. Des had admitted at the outset that he had a pair of binoculars. At this point all but Des, Clive, Richard 1st and Bimal walked on higher up the track. We waited about 1 mile away for them to return. One hour later they rejoined us (Bimal last). They told us that other Maoists had appeared to join their junior member (one of whom was carrying a machine gun!) Des was forced to give up his binoculars, which will apparently be posted back to him to England! … and then they were allowed to continue up the track. Bimal was annoyed at the whole event but did point out that we were not, at any point in danger.
Our trek continued uneventfully although the weather changed drastically. Sleet started to fall as we entered beautiful woodland. Lichen and moss adorned trees alongside streams, dramatic waterfalls and steep sided gorges. The path was muddy and steep but we were travelling downhill. Lunch was spent at Sun Lodge Banthiti – veg soup and a spinach pasty with pasta.
As we continued our afternoon walk the sun came out again as we began the final slog uphill to Tadapani. We encountered a screeching Japanese girl by the side of the track. She had been separated from her guide for 2 hours, but turned down Bimal’s offer to walk with us – very odd! He assured her that she would find him at the top of the track.
Cups of lemon tea greeted us on arrival.
Louise

p.s. Wednesday continued
The village W.I. arrived to dance for us – pretty cool and Paul wins the prize for meanest mover in our group (we had to join in!)

Thursday 28th October

Woke to the best view of the trek. Annapurna, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre were free of mist and looked amazing. (You could even see why Machhapuchhre is called “fish tail”).
The trek today appeared easier to me – though I prefer downhill and there was plenty of that. Lovely scenery today – we could really see the views today – could see where we trekked from yesterday and where we were going to for lunch.
I could really see why I came today and felt ashamed at my “what am I doing here?” remarks.
Super stops for lemon tea and lunch and much excitement at lunch at a visit from another Maoist. Unfortunately not in uniform but very intense. Bimal was in long conversation with him and we feared the worst (more rupees that is). But no – he was ashamed at his master whipping our binos and would see what he could do. Fat chance!
After lunch we would have had about an hour’s trek but it was longer because of a landslide. We had to climb above the slide and down to the path. (no ropes or crampons required)
I’ll now write how we are all doing:-
1) Judith and Cathy have suffered slight altitude sickness – dizzy and faint but are better now we have gone lower.
2) Judy’s knee (previous injury through scrubbing floor at home) is amazing. Though her optimism quaked slightly today at all the downhill – she was in “and another thing Richard” mood which was quite entertaining to all except Richard!
3) I have a cold which I know is boring (perhaps it is SARS) but not really what you need with all the climbing.
4) Howard trekked today with spare underpants and trousers in his bag. Say no more!
Arrived at Jninudandy about 2.30 which gave time for us to revive before our trek to the hot springs. Worth the walk – watched over by head porter Umm (Jo reckons his Mum had already had many children so when he arrived she said “what shall we call him? – Umm!!”)
Nice rooms with electric light but Judith, H, and Louise and Frank stay at a lower lodge.
6 pm – off to dinner ………..
Sandra

Thursday evening

A pleasant sit on the balcony with a beer for some. Most went to the hot springs and seemed to thoroughly enjoy it.
One hot shower was available but not for me.
A very nice three course meal again followed by the usual dominoes etc.
Another long night – not so cold at this level and more comfortable for me at this altitude. Lots of waking up and clock watching to see when I could get up. One of those wakeful times was punctuated by some happy soul shouting out that I could see Puure Thikey (spelling?) with the sunlight on it – I could hardly get out of bed quick enough! No I turned over – then I did leap out of bed for an urgent need only to find the queue two deep already. Luckily the Whites were fairly quick so there is nothing worse to write in the diary!
A pleasant walk today. Really enjoyed the real Nepal with the fields being worked by the villagers with their oxen. Richard 1st saved a villager’s life when he fell off his ox plough at 2 mph and grazed his leg. However when another villager with a real injury took off his sawn off wellies Richard gave him a cotton bandage and beat a hasty retreat.
Early arrival at Ghandruk making it a fairly short day.
Judy Backwell discovered some condoms but as there were only 9 said it was not fair to share them out as we needed 10. Judy has asked me to say that they were under the cushions on a chair.
Further highlights of the day included the visit by candlelight to the museum, Richard locking the key inside the room (not opened at the time of writing and the author snoring away in bed at 3 p.m.) Paul would like to say that he had a hot shower, big Keith would like to say he didn’t. Furthermore big Keith says that as he’s had a cold shower he doesn’t actually need a condom now and 9 would be enough!
Clive

Saturday 30th October

I sneaked off to bed at 8.30 last night intending to have a good read but must have dropped off at 9.00 in my lovely warm sleeping bag – what would we do without them, our personal retreat? Woke at 6.00 to a disappointing view of the mountains – dull and cloudy – nobody about taking photos. Happily about 1 hour later we all went down to breakfast and the sun had broken through. The lady of the lodge had picked fresh marigolds and decorated the entrance to the dining room (though we ate outside on the patio). Also placed josh sticks in old bean tins around patio and lit them – to welcome us to breakfast or to say “goodbye” to us. A very well-taken-care of lodge – lots of flowers and fresh veg growing around and a beautiful view of the mountains. 7.15 and breakfast is ready. A beautiful and quite easy walk down the hillside – until we arrived for lunch at Birethanti. The terraces of millet giving way to rice as the climate became warmer.
Flora and Fauna seen:- Ageratum, Busy Lizzies, Bourganvillea, Banana trees Coleus, Fuschias, Dahlias, Rhododendrons, Canna Lilies!
Lunch was enjoyed overlooking the Fiver – Khola Bhurengdi and seeing the new visitors to the area coming over the metal bridge.
A short walk back to the road and bus at Nayapul. The boys seemed happy to sing about returning to Pokhara and hopefully their wages and tips!
Hotel Bedrock – a hot shower and hair wash and a quick hour shopping with Judy. Richard warmly thanked all the boys for their hard work and courtesy and gave them a tip each and money for an evening meal. We all went to the Lakeside Restaurant – very atmospheric with Nepali dancing but the service was very slow. Richard White missed the meal due to a cold and sore throat, hopefully he’ll be better tomorrow. Bye
Ruth

Leaving Okhle, Nepal

2005-03-29T08:53:00.000Z

Thoughts on leaving Okhle.

As we bade farewell and walked past the line of villagers my emotions were a mixture of elation and sadness. Elation at what had been achieved during the year, and sadness at leaving these gentle, unworldly and courteous people.
The opening of the water project had been a wonderful occasion. Cutting the ribbon and seeing clear, fresh water flowing from the taps was immensely satisfying. And how hard the villagers had worked – 2 water tanks, 1200 metres of pipes and five new standby taps, all for £3500. What would this have cost in England?

The visit to the Secondary School had been no less enjoyable. On climbing the steep path, we reached a plateau and then walked through a 150-metre guard of honour, posies in our hands and garlands round our necks.
Our welcome at the Primary School had been just as exhilarating, and providing the funds for an extra teacher needed by these delightful children was a source of immense satisfaction to us all.

Squatting over a hole in the ground or washing in the cold water was a small price to pay, and who knows, by the time of our next visit the two toilets and two showers we have funded may well be installed.

Looking ahead at my companions, I felt enormous gratitude. Clive Davies and Richard White had been with me at the outset, and had given much needed support and encouragement throughout. The remainder of the party had all made donations, helped to raise funds and most importantly, had provided considerable enthusiasm and friendship.

As the village disappeared from view I was joined by Bimal. “You know, I feel quite proud of what I’ve achieved for my village” he said. What an understatement! His contribution to Okhle will never be forgotten.

Richard Backwell

Snow and Ice Course Report - Scotland

2005-03-20T15:32:00.000Z

For the first time since moving to London, I moved among the morning tube mania without being jostled about – the two sharp ice axes protruding either side of the rucksack on my back had been a great idea, a bubble of space on a rush hour tube train was indeed rare! Now only an eight hour coach journey to Glasgow (a £5 bargain) – destination Alltshellach, the Plas y Brenin winter base for a week-long course on Scottish snow and ice climbing. On arrival at Alltshellach an ensuite room and cake at five o’clock each day awaited me; I was going to enjoy this!

Day One began with introductions to my course mates (11 men – things were definitely look good!) followed by a recap of skills. Leaving the minibus bound for the Buachaille Etiv Beag in blizzarding snow and strong gusts was a sharp reminder of Scottish weather. Day Two was the first day of putting skills in action and now at a ratio of 1:2, my partner Toby and I set off with guide Phil to Stob Coire an Lochan and Boomerang Arete. Weighed down with my kit, a rope, mountains of packed lunch and the infamous Plas y Brenin cake, I knew this week would also improve my fitness, no excuses! The weather was good and both the walk-in and climb were aided by sunshine. Toby and I both learnt a lot about snow and ice multi-pitching, including the importance of moving swiftly and that ice is always steeper when you get on it than it looks from the walk-in!

The third day also dawned sunny and we set off for Ben Nevis (affectionately known to the staff as Benjamin Everest). Toby unfortunately had a recurrence of an old knee injury and made his way back to the bus leaving Phil to work on my ice technique on a Grade 5 bulge which looked beautifully convex as we approached but monstrously overhanging from the bottom. We then proceeded up to our route, Central Gully Left-Hand. On arriving at the top of the penultimate pitch, I was informed that we were a little behind schedule after helping Toby off earlier and that a speed record would have to be set for the top pitch and walk-out to the bus. A 12-minute speed assault on the last pitch was followed by just over an hour of my running to fill Phil’s 6’3 strides. A really fab day!

Day Four and the weather returned to poor visibility for an ascent of Curved Ridge, Buachaille Etiv Mor. This was a chance for us to practice moving together alpine style and placing runners/belays. My new partner Ollie and I took it in turn to lead parts of the route and I made a new discovery: Dachstein mitts. Whilst appearing out of the George Mallory (and/or Richard Backwell) era, me hands were toasty!

The final day of the course was again sunny and my calves were thankful for the cable car up most of the Aonach Mor walk-in. Two climbs later we settled into the local pub for a de-brief and end of course drinks. This was not the end of my stay at Alltshellach however, Ross had arranged to meet me and put some of the week of skills in action two days later. In the intervening days I was lucky to hook up and climb with one of the Brenin’s Assistant Instructors who had an injured knee. Over the next two days we made our way round the beautiful Ballachulish Horseshoe (would recommend) and I got some much-needed technical advice on my rock-climbing technique. I now felt fully prepared to meet Ross and tackle some more ice…or so I thought!!

Catherine Freeman

I could barely contain my excitement as I made the drive from the Lakes to Ben Nevis. I had not done any winter climbing in about 2 years and had done very little ice climbing. I met Cat in Ballachulish, hardened from a week of ice climbing instruction. Needless to say I felt in good hands, sadly though, so did she.

The following day, having overcome some serious route finding difficulties, we found ourselves at the CIC hut deciding to climb The Italian IV,4. An initial ice ramp leading to steeper ice. Cat boldly led the first pitch, she had no choice she had forgotten our ice screws. I seconded, terrified by the hard, brittle ice, yet awed and inspired by Cat’s superb lead and her relaxed attitude at the top of the pitch. The rest of the route proved too much, not even getting into my circle helped (management tool to help calm and relax, which does not work), so we retreated off the route.

After a good night’s sleep we took on the great White Shark of Aonach Mor. This time. Armed with a full set of ice screws we felt confident. Cat started climbing, leaving me at the bottom to enjoy spindrift and frozen hands and eyelashes. I seconded up to find a perfectly created anchor with very neat ropework. I carried on up steep ice to a piton belay, but difficult route finding and a party climbing below us made us decide to abseil off. The cornice at the top would have proved difficult to break through – that and Cat had a plane to catch from Glasgow in three hours!

Ross Buchanan

The Arctic Circle

2005-03-08T14:37:00.000Z

A report from one of our members travelling and researching in the Artic Circle.

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I stepped off the stairs onto a small airstrip and immediately fell over only then realising the whole thing was covered in ice, I hoped this wasn’t going to be an omen for the next 111 days. We made our way from the airport, in what would seem in a couple weeks time as the moderate temperature of minus eight. It was 3 o’clock in the morning and the sky was a dawn blue. This was, as I later came to realise, the last time I would see night for a third of a year.

The first week was spent in a small camp about 40km from the one town on the Svalbad islands. We spent the week acclimatising to the cold, getting used to the stoves and the tents, fitting the sledges (pulks) that we would drag behind us and we would keep our world in, and on some basic mountaineering. We got the first taste of dragging the sleds (pulking) as we travelled to where two of the leaders had spent the first part of the winter. Here we spent three days taking down the wind turbine which would be used to charge the radios and sat phone, the lavu (a kind of tipi) and digging the base camp tents out of 4 feet of snow and ice (not fun at minus fifteen).
At winter base camp we were introduced to the polar bear protection, the brothers Balto and Zakko the two most unsuspecting guard dogs I’ve ever come across. We also got our rifle training on some big game rifles should we come across a hungry bear. We were taught rope work and some more advanced mountaineering. We also began to learn cross-country skiing on some Norwegian army issue skis (non-edged, non quick releasing wooden skis that became known as two by fours).

It was only after digging out the tents that I realised I had frost nip on most of my fingers, something that would be the bane of my life for the next month. To begin with the tips of my fingers felt like I had burnt them. After this big white blisters covering the tips appeared (some turning to blood blisters which subsequently popped). Then the top layer of skin died and turned brown and finally it peeled off leaving me with no fingerprint and red tips. The whole process isn’t that painful but I lost sensation in the tips for a few weeks, which was annoying.
We pulked 15km over fjordic sea ice to get to where we were setting up our base camp. This experience was incredibly hard (my only training before was dragging a tyre along Chesil beach) The sea ice briefly broke which left a lily pond of small ice blocks floating in the bay, the challenge being to jump from one to another and not fall in.

We began to get ready to pulk to our home for the next month but were delayed by 3 days as a blizzard hit us and buried the tents in huge drifts making it impossible to venture outside. On the fourth day the weather cleared and we made way on a 40km trip over a mountain pass and along sea ice. Here we got a chance to taste our first experience of ‘extreme’ pulking. At the top of the pass, which had taken us a day and a half to walk up, we unhitched from the pulks, sat on the back of them and proceeded to cruise down to the sea ice in just over an hour (much shorter if you happen to be tied to a dog). It took us another day to reach our base for the next month. We set up camp on Cap Napier a small spit of land that juts out just in front of a 3km glacier face as it calves into the sea ice.

For the next month we travelled roughly 300km across a huge peninsula called Dixon land. We met a trapper who had been living on his own for the past 25 years, and his main claim to fame was being featured in Michael Palin’s ‘Pole to Pole’. We also travelled to a Russian mining settlement which had been abandoned in ’96 in a fashion that looked like the inhabitants had had an hour to gather their belongings and leave. It is hard to describe finding a small town in the middle of an arctic wilderness. The town was made of 16 or so large 70’s utilitarian style buildings (most of them living areas), a sports hall, several office blocks and a hospital (all speckled with hammer and sickles CCCPs and the occasional bust of Lenin). From what we saw of these places it must have been a truly austere existence.

We pulked back under clear azure skies, in a heat that we weren’t used to (minus five) which led to us pulking topless and some very burnt backs. As we made it back to Cap Napier the melt was now noticeable, and we could see the sea ice had started to deteriorate. We made preparations for the Queens Jubilee beacon, dragging driftwood which was becoming exposed on the shoreline up onto a large glacial moraine.

Just as the helicopter that had been filming us lighting the beacon for the BBC finished its final circle we set off along the sea ice with the beacon burning behind us, because it was obvious that the ice would not be there for much longer. After pulking for 30km we set up camp just where the sea ice stopped. As the sea ice melted it cooled the water making it denser and giving it an eerie mirror calm. We bivvied out in the night and were woken by the sound of Bulger whales surfacing for air just ten metres from the point we had camped on, then disappearing under the ice edge.

For the next two days we lived by the tides because the sea ice had stopped short of where we had expected and so were forced to travel on a thin strip of tidal beach under cliff gullies with constant rock falls to keep us alert. Now that the sea ice had gone we were forced to carry all our equipment and fibreglass pulks on our backs in relays under the cliffs. (Some of us suddenly found our pulks swapped for 6-foot rescue pulks that had been dragged by the leaders - I am still at a loss to explain this bizarre phenomenon!).

We finally made it back to base camp and took some rest days to relax and prepare for the science phase of the expedition. The projects included the diatonal mating habits of the Snow Bunting, Alluvial deposition of sediment with relation to size, the nesting habits of pink-footed geese and the ptarmigan; with the research going mainly to the Wetlands Trust - a couple of peoples PhD’s. The work mainly consisted of 24hr observation of nests (I pulled the blizzard watch) and measuring rocks on alluvial fans – not really my forte, but interesting enough.
The science did give us a lot of free time when it wasn’t our shift, which gave us time for some mountain climbing, scree running and drift wood crafting which turned out a throne, some bridges, benches, huts, a raft and a sauna.

As the end of the expedition came closer people began to reflect and think of home. With 3 days till we touched down at Heathrow we packed up base camp and waited for the boat to pick us up and take us to Longyearbyen, the one town on the archipelago. It must have been an odd sight in the small town as everybody was in down jackets and warm clothes and we were dressed in t-shirts and sandals, and, as we were told by the librarian as we tried to access the internet, ‘”I am sorry there have been complaints. You must leave, you stink.” (We were not sure if this was down to a poor grasp of English or a very good one!).

We touched down in the drowning humidity and heat of Heathrow’s confusion, and after the final good-byes got into the first traffic jam I had been in for a long time, and prepared for the forgotten experiences of seeing stars and feeling rain. There would also be the novelty of using my front teeth to eat with for the first time in a while.

..Now I find myself back in the ‘real world’ I ask my self - do I miss it? Of course – Do I want to go back right now? Let’s just say at the moment I am enjoying flushing toilets.

Peer Led Expeditions

2005-02-01T16:53:00.000Z

Two of our members, John Bainbridge and Faye Midmore have just returned from a tough trip to France where they trekked 160 kms of the GR 5 in 10 days. This trail between Lake Geneva and Nice is regarded as being one of the most demanding long distance treks in the world. The trail rises to 3000m as it nears the Mt Blanc Massif. Conditions even this time of the year were very demanding with the trail winding up through snow bowls. Both John and Faye thoroughly recommend this route for a peer led expedition.

With Faye having to return to the UK because of work commitments, John teamed up with Chris Lyness for a few days climbing and ice skills on the Mer de Glace before being joined by Melissa Power.

As a warm up to an ascent of Mt Blanc, the two climbed the Petite Aiguille Verte, a lovely mixed route before moving on to Mt Blanc du Tacul. Conditions, once again, have been difficult in the Mt Blanc Massif made worse by the closure of the Aiguille du Midi cable car. When it re-opened there was the inevitable rush to get on the mountain leading, once again to tragedy. John
informs us that a guide and his client died in an avalanche on the Tacul.

Listening to John’s account of the climb, there is no doubt that he has put the skills he learnt on Mt Rainier last year to excellent effect. Crossing the bergschrund on Tacul is always an interesting affair but we understand that this year it is a yawning chasm. It is a testament to their skills that John and Mel negociated the bergschrund and the other crevasses, summitted and returned safely.

Peer led expeditions are an exciting way to develop leadership and travel with like-minded people. John, Faye and Mel are typical of our members who have been on expedition but now want to do more. Advice, mentoring and financial support through gift aid is available from the DES.

We now have a discussion forum where you can get in touch with other young (and young at heart) explorers. Just follow the URL: Leading Edge Expeditions Forum

Registered Charity no. 1071217

Seize the day

2005-01-21T10:47:00.000Z

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."
Mark Twain
So what have you got planned for Summer 2006? A dead end job until you go off to University or start work and lazing about at home getting out of bed after 11am?
Or how about this:
Expedition: MOONLANDS 6

Area: LADAKH & ZANSKAR, INDIA

Leader: JOHN HEGARTY - who has led over fifty expeditions including ventures to Bolivia, Canada, China, Ecuador, France, Iceland, India, Peru, Thailand and the United States. His previous ventures have received both the Karrimor and Sir Vivian Fuchs Awards. He is a Churchill Fellow, a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, has served as member of the National Council of the Young Explorers Trust and is a Vice Principal of a Technology College. John is a Plato Award holder and helped establish the Dorset Expeditionary Society.

Approximate dates: 20th JULY- 21st AUGUST 2006

Aim: To develop Young Leaders

Objectives:
To raft the headwaters of the Indus River
To trek across the Moonlands of the Tibetan Plateau
To mountain bike several high altitude routes to the Chinese border
To complete a crossing of the Greater Himalaya

TRIP DESCRIPTION: In July our group will depart from London to fly into New Delhi and then onwards across the Himalayas to Leh, the highest airfield in the world and the capital of Ladakh. This is a unique land, long isolated as a kingdom by the high peaks, which still forbid access for eight months of every year. It is the coldest and highest inhabited place on earth with less rainfall than the Sahara. Populated by nomadic herdsmen who are Buddhist, the region is in reality an unspoilt area of Tibet just miles from the Chinese border.

Already at 12,000ft in a region known as 'Moonlands' we will start our high altitude training. Our first objective lies in a white water rafting descent of the Indus. The melt waters of high glaciers provide exciting rapids whilst our group paddles through desert and canyons.

From the waters of the Indus, we will return to Leh and then undertake several days of strenuous mountain biking in the Zanskar Mountains. This is an ideal way to see the most dramatic of landscapes and meet Tibetans in their villages. Following this our group trek across the spectacular passes of the Zanskar region. Trekking is of world class standard and will provide a strenuous challenge for our group.

On returning to Leh, our group will undertake one of the most arduous of road journeys across two chains of the Himalayas. This involves a three-day drive to Manali in Himachal Pradesh and on to New Delhi. Here we will have some days to rest, recover and explore the capital of the Raj.

Our team will have a unique advantage gained from the five previous ventures into Ladakh. Our experience on the ground, local contacts and guides provide us with the very best opportunity for a successful expedition.

COST: £2050

THIS INCLUDES: Flights, Administration, Selection, Training, Specialist Equipment, Visas, Insurance, Permits, Guides, Porters, Cooks, Ponies, Rafts, Hotels, Airport Taxes, Overland Transport, Food (except in transit), Laundry, Medical Supplies, Malarial Prophylaxis, Membership of The Dorset Expeditionary Society, Ball and B-B-Q Tickets.

STATUS: The Society does not run expeditions; it does however approve leaders and vet planning. This venture is not a Society, school or county trip and the problems and dangers inherent in such a venture are obvious. A realistic appreciation of the difficulties and dangers is essential before any application is made. Any programme can only be provisional and can so easily be subject to change.

APPLICATION: Applications always outnumber places and a selection procedure will decide the final team. Previous expedition experience is not necessary but applicants must be fit and healthy. Many potential applicants are deterred by the apparent difficulty of gaining experience or funding such a project. In reality, no candidate faces any difficulty, unless and until they have successfully completed selection.

1. Anyone between 15 and 20 may apply by returning the completed application form together with eight passport size photographs and a non-returnable deposit of £50. Cheques made payable to 'Moonlands Expedition'. (Do not wait to get a passport)

2. Applicants will be given an outline briefing and invited to attend a Selection Course. These are now booked for 7th–9th October and in early December 2005. Applicants must attend just one of these courses.

3. Those who pass selection will be offered a place on the expedition. Successful candidates automatically become members of the Society. This offers to them a number of training and social opportunities as well as several invitations to lead adventurous activity camps for other youngsters.

4. Selected members who live in the South of England are expected to attend two Training Days, one during the Christmas period and one at Easter and all are expected to attend a training weekend just before departure. Selection and Training will not interfere with examination work.

5. By Christmas, all those committed to the venture will be asked to confirm their place.

6. Any questions about this venture should be directed to the Leader.

Application form

COMPLETED FORMS SHOULD BE SENT DIRECTLY TO:

John Hegarty
16 Weare Close
Fortuneswell
Portland
Dorset DT5 1JP

(email) johnhegs@hotmail.com

01305 820088 (home)
01305 783057 (college)
01305 830555 (fax)
07770 752008 (mobile)
www.gapyearexpeditions.org.uk

We gotta get out of this place

2005-01-21T09:35:00.000Z

"We gotta get out of this place
If it's the last thing we ever do
We gotta get out of this place
'cause girl, there's a better life for me and you".
These lyrics are from The Animal's 1965 hit 'We gotta get out of this place' and let's face it who doesn't feel like that a fair proportion of the time?
Truth is, more and more people are taking the opportunity and getting out and exploring the world. Learning about different lifestyles, cultures and places. Who knows where such an adventure could lead you?
Time and again I hear people saying they want to do something, but they don't because they don't know what to do. Look on the gap year bulletin boards and you'll see young people talking about going to Oz to 'find themselves', but isn't this becoming a bit 'samey', like interailing did in the 1990's?

Do something different
How about raising funding to install a fresh water supply to a remote Nepalese village and then go and visit the people you have helped? Or build a hospital and school in Kenya and spend time with the local people and exploring the environment. Climb and mountain bike a series of high mountain trails in the Andes or canoe the upper reaches of the Amazon. Climb Pico de Orizabe, the highest peak in Mexico and camp in a rainforest, trek the ancient Inca trails in Peru or visit India and the Taj Mahal, trekking through the coldest and highest inhabited place on earth with less rainfall than the Sahara. Canoe Beaver Creek and a section of the Yukon in Alaska or stand on the summit of Mt Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain.

If you really want to get out of your comfort zone and try something really different, have you thought about trying an expedition? Leading Edge Expeditions is part of a UK based charity that approves expeditions across the globe. They've been running for 19 years and have sent out over fifty major expeditions.
Experience not profit
What truly makes our trips different is that they are NOT run for profit. On a Leading Edge Expedition prices are kept at a reasonable level so young people can afford them and all the expedition leaders pay their own travel costs in full. We've heard all sorts of horror stories from people who have been on commercial trips and been fed sweet potatoes for two weeks. Don't be fooled that is not character building......
In 2005 Leading Edge Expeditions have a very full programme of trips attempting all the exciting things I've described above. Check out their website at www.gapyearexpeditions.org.uk for more details.

On top of the world

2005-01-02T13:07:00.000Z

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stand on the top of Mount Everest?

Follow the link below for an incredible 360 degree view.

http://www.panoramas.dk/fullscreen2/full22.html

If you fancy a chance of standing on top of Mt Blanc to compare the view and you are available between 24 July and 15 August 2004, why not take a look at our expedition details below.

French Alps (Au Pays des Geants) 2005

Expedition Leader: Clive Burgess

Mountaineering Leader: Mark Salmon

Approximate Dates: 24 JULY/ 15 AUGUST 2005

Objectives: Mountain bike to Chamonix; Learn about mountain environment; develop skills in alpinism; apply these skills on snow, ice and rock, climb a series of mountains.

Trip description
Mountaineering has its roots firmly established in the Alps. Many of the world's finest climbers 'cut their teeth' on the mountains of the Mt Blanc Massif before going on to the bigger ranges, such as the Himalaya.

The Alps provide every conceivable adventure for the expeditioner from the novice to the experienced. The thrill of standing on a glacier surrounded by huge peaks is awe inspiring, and continues to capture the imagination of every climber. This expedition led by Clive Burgess will be the 4th in this area. Unusually, the team will travel from Le Havre to Chamonix on mountain bikes. We plan to have a support vehicle that will carry all our mountaineering gear as well as spares. The vehicle will take the bikes and any unnecessary equipment back to the UK. The team will return by train and ferry.

Mountaineering requires teamwork, stamina and dedication. There are many techniques to learn, and the expedition will begin with extensive practice on the ice of the Mer de Glace before moving onto the Tour Glacier where further training will take place. From there we will start to acclimatise to altitude with climbs on the Domes de Miages. The group will then take Europe's highest cable car up to the Aiguille du Midi with its imposing view of Mt Blanc. From here we shall camp on the plateau before climbing Mt Blanc du Tacul.

An ascent of Mt Blanc itself may be considered; this, however, depends on the age and competence of the group and the conditions in the Alps at that time. Previous groups have indeed stood on the summit of Western Europe’s highest mountain but we are not going to the Alps with the intention of climbing Mt Blanc. In any event all mountaineering experiences we cover will be guided by a strict code of safety that will be at the heart of skill development. Learning the many aspects of mountaineering will require patience and a willingness to practice. Mountaineering is a risk activity and there is lot to learn from self-arrest techniques, roping up, glacier travel, crevasse rescue, how to use crampons plus a host of other things. Group members will not be able to progress onto the next stage until they have demonstrated proficiency in taught skills.

Group members will face a rigorous selection process to determine if they possess the right qualities for such an expedition. Some experience of climbing is an advantage, but is not a pre-requisite. We do not anticipate a Catherine Destivelle, or Reinhold Messner at this stage; rather we invite applications from young people who want a real challenge working in a team environment. Initial training will take place before we leave the UK.

The Leadership Team

Clive Burgess: 53, Head of Upper School in a large Weymouth Sports College. Co- Founder of the Dorset Expeditionary Society, he has 20 years experience of youth expeditions in the UK and overseas. He is a Fellow of The Royal Geographical Society. He has led expeditions to Canada, the USA, South America, Europe. Climbing experience covers Alaska, Colorado, the Alps, Andes, Canada. His most recent climb was on Mt McKinley (Denali), one of the world’s most demanding mountains.

Mark Salmon: 32, Head of PE and Outdoor Adventure at The Wey Valley School and Sports College. Mark has many years experience both in the UK and beyond. He is responsible for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. Expeditions include Nepal, Alaska, Europe and USA. Climbing experience is extensive from the Alps to the USA. He was part of the team to have recently climbed Denali. Mark will be leading the mountaineering section.

Rob Legrice 34, Head of Art in an Arts College in High Wycombe. Rob has much experience in leading youth expeditions, particularly in Canada and the USA. He led a mountain bike venture across the Rockie Mountains unsupported. He has climbed in the Alps.

Two other leaders will shortly be appointed.

Cost: To be confirmed but at this stage we estimate a figure of £750 to include: administration, selection, specialist equipment, insurance, transport (hire of vehicle, transport on the ground, return fare to UK), mountain bike spares, accommodation, mountain hut fees, cable car costs, food ( except meals group members wish to purchase beyond the expedition food ), and membership of The Dorset Expeditionary Society

Application:

Applications for these expeditions have always been oversubscribed and a selection procedure will decide the final team. As stated, previous expedition experience is not essential, but will be an advantage. All applicants, however, should be fit and healthy and have a genuine interest in the mountain environment. Selection will take place in November
Many potential applicants are deterred by the apparent difficulty of funding such a project. In reality, no candidate faces any difficulty unless, and until, they have successfully completed selection.

Applications are now invited from young people aged 16 - 19 ( applications from outside of these age groups will, however, be considered)

To Apply: Complete and return an application form together with 2 passport sized photographs and a non-returnable deposit of £50. Cheques should be made payable to "Au Pays des Geants Expedition ." Application forms can be obtained from this website (see link on left of page). Full details of the selection weekend will then follow.

Application forms should be returned to:
Clive Burgess2 Manor Place Fortuneswell Portland
Dorset DT5 1NL
Email: clive.d.burgess@btinternet.com

Impossible task?

2004-12-02T08:26:00.000Z

It seems an insurmountable task. To motivate a young adult reader enough to get them to consider taking part in an Outdoor adventure activity that will undoubtedly change their whole perspective on life. This task is made harder by not being able to see them or speak to them face-to-face. How can I possibly influence individuals enough to join us for four weeks in some of the remotest places on earth?

I was surfing the Internet the other day looking at Outdoor adventure websites and I came across one for the foundation of Outdoor Adventure. They have written a manifesto outlining why Outdoor Adventure activities are so important in forming balanced and well-adjusted young adults. Now I'm not big on jargon, but they said one or two things that made me read on and so I'll quote their manifesto message below. I don't necessarily think it will make you all clamour to your telephones or PC's to get in touch with us, but I do think it will give you some leverage when telling parents/guardians that you want to embark on a trip of a lifetime!

THE IMPORTANCE OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
The need for adventure
In an attempt to understand themselves, others and the changing context of their lives, all young people are engaged, consciously or unconsciously, in an exploration of what it is to be human.
This is in essence a spiritual journey, in which young people come to terms with the mysteries of human existence; establish standards and values by which they live and work; identify worthwhile goals and develop the skills and understanding through which these may be achieved.
Our society is changing rapidly, and this calls for new approaches to learning, working and living together. The importance of assisting young people to prepare effectively and successfully for their adult lives is obvious; the cost of failure in this task will be borne in the future both by the individuals themselves and by society. The challenge for all concerned with young people is to empower them to cope effectively with the choices, problems and opportunities, which face them, and at the same time to help them develop a real sense of community and citizenship.

DES expedition achievements in Kenya

2003-12-08T15:03:00.000Z

Those of us who have not been on an expedition to Kenya probably do not realise the full extent of the achievements made over the past five years. Here is a brief summary.

The Baragu Health Centre:
A local initiative to provide affordable basic health care and health education to the Baragu-Murungi community. The foundations were dug by the Kenya 99 expedition group, and funding of the project has so far exceeded £32000. The ten-roomed single storey building is almost complete, but the major task of providing medical equipment has only just begun. The Kenya 2001 team shipped a generator out, but the list of requirements is extensive. The centre opened to patients in October 2001 and the government hospital at Chuka seconded three nurses who treat an average of 60 patients a day. Easter 2003 saw the completion of an extensive sewage system and the laying of a fixed pipe from the adjacent water project. The water originates from Lake Ellis 20 miles away high on the slopes of Mt Kenya.

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In July 2003 a staff accommodation block was started, an essential requirement before the maternity unit can be opened. A delivery couch and 8 maternity beds are now needed as well as specialist infant care equipment. We look forward to the momentous day when the Baragu Health Centre welcomes its first new baby into the community.

The Katharaka Primary School:
Games equipment, team strips, musical instruments, books, pencils, wall clocks and a duplicating machine have been donated. Eight classrooms have been painted over the five years, and a partially built room was completed and equipped with desks by the 2001 expedition group.
The Easter 2002 group glazed all the windows in one of the classroom blocks and painted murals on many of the walls. There is a great deal more to do including the replacement of many broken windows, floor repairs and the provision of reading and reference books.

Wiru Secondary School:
This is a special initiative by the community to provide affordable secondary schooling for those who cannot pay to attend the well-established private schools. The Summer 2003 expedition helped with classroom building work, purchased window frames and fitted the glass in two classrooms. Sets of science text books were also supplied. We are sponsoring a special young man named George and we are following his progress with great interest.

On the roof of Africa

2002-03-08T15:00:00.000Z

Crowned by eternal snows, the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro (19,340ft) is the highest point in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. It dominates its landscape unlike any other mountain. Located in Tanzania, this extinct volcano looms over vast African game reserves, and the ascent passes through five eco-systems; starting in rain forest and progressing through moorland, desert then alpine to the permanent ice cap.

Inspired by DES expeditions, last year Eleanor Crooks (Moonlands 98 & Dragon Mountain 00) and Tim Edmans (Dragon Mountain 00) took a crack at Mt Kilimanjaro. Here is Eleanor’s report of their journey.

(Photo by Sam Gawler)

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Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro had been an ambition of mine ever since I first heard its poetic name. Looking for a demanding, but attainable (or so we hoped) challenge, Kilimanjaro seemed the perfect choice. So at the end of July (2001) we found ourselves on a plane heading for Tanzania.
We had one evening to get to know our four trekking companions – an exceptional bunch – and to wonder what we had let ourselves in for.

Morning dawned, and we set off to Marangu Gate, and the start of the trek. We also met the man charged with getting us to the top, the wonderful ever-smiling Tomsifu. We had chosen the most popular Marangu route to give ourselves the best chance of success.

The first day was a gentle 1000m climb through tropical jungle, concentrating primarily on trying to spot monkeys. One of the most amazing aspects of Kilimanjaro is its five distinctive ecological zones, from jungle to glacier in just five days. However, it was hard to believe we were actually on a mountain as the weather was more ‘Welsh’ than ‘African’, and visibility was no more than a few metres. It was a rather soggy party which arrived at Mandara Huts.

No sign of improvement in the weather, so the second day began much like the first, as we made our way steadily upward. Jungle gave way to moorland – very reminiscent of Dartmoor in the rain. We soon got used to being passed by heavily laden porters – all ill equipped, but seemingly oblivious, although the man wearing a suit and wellies was almost unbelievable!

At around 12000ft the moorland became a rockier, Alpine environment. Just when it seemed as if we would never actually see the mountain, we broke through the cloud layer and saw Mawenzie, Kilimanjaro’s incredibly photogenic peak, towering above us. Its jagged summit is now out of bounds to climbers, as previous expeditions had experienced a 50% fatality rate.
At 12,500 ft, Horombo Huts were right on the edge of the clouds, but allowed us glimpses of the snow-capped summit, Uhuru Peak.

The next day was all about acclimatising, and a short climb, which afforded good views of Mawenzi and Uhuru. This day gave us a chance to ‘recharge our batteries’ for the summit push. The altitude was already noticeable, with everything requiring that little bit more effort.
The fourth day felt long and hard. Vegetation became scarce as the icy winds swept across the saddle between Mawenzi and Uhuru Peak, the barren ground resembling a moonscape. Finally we reached Kibo Hut, perched at the foot of the crater itself. Sleep was the priority for the rest of the day as it was going to be a long night.

At 12:30am we were ready to go, and luckily for us the temperature had risen to a balmy minus 10C! It was a perfect, cloudless night, with an almost full moon providing an eerie half-light. The crater wall is basically a very steep 1000m scree slope, and by far the hardest part of the trek. The scree wasn’t completely frozen, so it was a case of two steps forward and one back. Tomsifu decided that speed was the key to keeping warm, and we gained height fairly rapidly. Soon we were the leading group – nicknamed ‘the bullet train’ – we’d have been perfectly happy with the normal ‘Railtrack’ service as we puffed away in the rare atmosphere. The moon sank below the crater rim and it became noticeably colder as we passed 17000ft and then 18000ft. The terrain became rockier, and then finally we reached the crater rim at Gilman’s Point. Reinvigorated by hot, sweet tea – a stroke of genius on behalf of Tomsifu – we set off for the summit. We still had 700ft to ascend and half the crater to traverse, but mentally we were ‘there’. It was very satisfying to look down on the twinkling head torches snaking their way up the crater wall on the Machame route.

At 6:31am an orange glow spread across the horizon, and the sun illuminated the mountain and the sea of cloud far below. It was hard to believe we were now looking down on Mawenzi. Five minutes later we were standing on the roof of Africa, and it was f a n t a s t i c.

Eleanor Crooks

Jess Henderson travels to Nepal for a glimpse of Everest and more.

2001-12-08T14:51:00.000Z

Location : Lukla (2480 m)There is absolutely nothing like an hour of terror to wake you up in the morning. There is no way the hardest-hearted person would be calm to look through the cockpit of such a tiny plane and see the hillside coming towards you , INCREDIBLY FAST !.

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Safely on the ground though and all limbs intact , I am a little worried I have a headache already. I didn't think altitude struck until above 2500m . Then it comes back to me - we spent the previous evening in the company of the notorious Mr. Buchanan in Sam's bar. The trusty hangover !

Location : Gokyo (4735 m - is the altitude showing ? )I am struggling up this monstrous hill wondering whereabouts the top is . 'Up' a Canadian lady tells me , helpfully. She then pauses to take a photo of me because she mistakenly believes I am sweet . I am not too impressed with this as , in true DES fashion , I have had about two hours sleep in the last few days and I haven't washed for well over a week . Eventually I arrive at the summit of Gokyo Peak , a mere 5380 m and all for a view of Everest. I must be mad. It has been cloudy for the entire way up but suddenly the clouds begin parting. The Sherpas are laughing madly at my desperate attempts to record Everest , Lhotse , Cho Oyu and the rest on film . Then, just as suddenly as they appeared , the Himalayan giants are concealed by clouds again . Never mind. I got my photos with the hammer of justice (ask Mel P) but once again I forgot the Great Western Carrier bag. Palden (Sherpa) and I begin to descend (Bridie had altitude sickness - I reckon she stayed in the lodge so she got more hot chocolate). We spot a German group from the lodge and Palden races off to put our order for lunch in - He was convinced they would eat everything otherwise. Deciding I am now in fact rather cold , I start running down the trail muttering ' I tot told hands' repeatedly.
' Excuse me ?' Then I realise this is an Englishman speaking and he is convinced I am fully mad . Eventually I get to the bottom of the hill and to my hot chocolate. An unbeatable day.
Location : Sherpa Culture Museum , Namche Bazaar (3441m )'This guy is in a lot of photos,' says Bridie , ' I think he must be somebody important .'
I crack up laughing . The craggy face that is staring from the photo is that of none other than Sir Edmund Hillary. First man to summit Mt. Everest and a national hero of Nepal. Bridie is from Chester and is very firmly in the 'townie' mould . Later the same afternoon , we spot a familiar face coming towards us. It's Ross again. This country just ain't big enough for the both of us . He is trekking of to Kala Pattar so we leave him to finalise his plans and settle down to a beer in the world's highest bar (reputedly).
Sorry to bore you . That was trekking . Here is village life –
Location : Bhimphedi , Somewhere in the middle hills ,Nepal.When we arrived in Bhimphedi , there was a rather sweet little chicken . Being vegetarian , I was impressed that the chick had it's freedom. Then one day the chickie disappeared somewhere. When I went to take a shower , I found the chicken. In fillets. On the floor.
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Another one of the chickens also roamed the yard. One day I came outside to find some of my laundry had fallen off the balcony. The chicken was sporting a pair of Bridget Jones bloomers on it's head and going berserk bumping into things. I was laughing so hard it took ages to rescue it. The School cow also makes an effort to befriend us. 'If you're happy and you know it ' Class 4 are doing strains of a melody that is both strained and not too melodic. 'Miss , Miss' they start shouting. I am so determined to finish that I ignore them . A deep and distinct rumble comes from nearby and I look round to find myself face to face with the school cow who has come to check out the action. 'Very funny' I tell the class. My attempts to learn Nepali have been somewhat futile - I was feeling rather confident one day so when the local shopkeeper enquired as to my health , I thought I would be adventurous. 'Malai jardu lagyo ' I said and I was a little hurt when he burst out laughing. I told him that I felt MAGIC not COLD . I wondered why he never looked at me the same !.