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What kit do i take on a walk
I often get asked, "what kit do I need for a walk in the winter?"
The weather in the South West can change in a moment, and be very different to the forecast.
In the winter, I recommend the above as a minimum. Some of the areas we visit are isolated and have no mobile signal.
Ask yourself this question - If something went wrong, do I have the right kit to keep me comfortable whilst we wait for assistance?
Plan for the worst, hope for the best.
You'll always have a good day if you prepare.
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Dartmoor Big Day Out
Dartmoor Big Day Out
This wonderful group braved a little bit of rain today to experience the delights of Dartmoor. For some this was the first time they'd been there. We were joined by Tom Birch, an expert historian. We learnt about the history of Dartmoor Prison, Tin Mining, The Devonport Leat and how waterproof our kit was.
A really great day with some really lovely people. I'm looking forward to the next one.
Cosy Walks
Exeter Dementia Action Alliance asked me to put on a walk for their charity, walking one of their Cosy Walks. The Cosy Walks are a group of Dementia friendly routes around the city. If you would like to join a great bunch of people whilst supporting this great charity. Head over to the booking page. There are places available.
BBC NEWS
Whilst working on the Baton of Bicton Challenge as photographer and technical advisor. The BBC made use of much of the video and drone footage shot by Coast and Country Walking for their Spotlight News on 2nd May 2024
Baton of bicton update
For the last week we have been employed by Bicton College as their technical advisors, and photographer on The Baton of Bicton. This was a gruelling 100 mile run from Studland to Bicton in East Devon, following the South West Coastal Path. It was undertaken by the students of the Military and Protective Services Course (MAPS).
Coast and Country have a detailed knowledge of the South West Coast Path. This knowledge ensure that tired runners didnt have to worry too much about navigating the route. The Coast and Country team were there throughout to make sure they were on the right track at all times.
It has been an absolute pleasure for Coast and Country Walking to work with the college staff and students on this incredible project, which has raised over £7000 for the RNLI and Royal Marines Charity.
Scott Lawson - Curriculum Area Manager at Bicton - " Thanks Andy for all your help and support throughout. We couldn’t have done it without you. "
Baton of bicton
Coast and Country Walking supports - Baton of Bicton
I have a very close association with Bicton College's Military and Protective Services Academy. The students from this course are to embark on an incredible challenge (30th April - 2 May). Running from Studland nr Poole in Dorset to Bicton College over 3 days along some of the toughest terrain of the South West Coastal Path. It is their intention to raise funds for the Royal Marines Charity and the RNLI. Coast and Country Walking will be supporting them throughout the 3 day challenge, providing physical support and expertise. If you would like to support these incredible youngsters use the link below.
Hill & Moorland Award - Feb 2024
Yesterday I successfully completed my Hill & Moorland Award
'I am now able to navigate you 10 miles to the wing of a fly using only a map and compass'
I am slowly recovering from the three days of assessment for my Mountain Training Association - Hill and Moorland Leaders Award. Some people have asked what is the significance of this. Its a fair question.
It proves that I have a level of competence to take walking groups anywhere in uncultivated, non-mountainous high or remote country known variously as upland, moor, bog, fell, hill or down. Places such as Dartmoor and the Brecon Beacons.
The standards expected are extremely high. I have had to complete 40 qualifying walks in such areas, all of which have had to be of distance.
I've had to prove that I can navigate. Its safe to say that I am now able to navigate you 10 miles to the wing of a fly using only a map and compass. The picture shows the features we were expected to navigate to, and not just in daylight, in the dark as well.
Things can go wrong in these sorts of terrain. We had to demonstrate that we knew exactly what to do. This included completing a 2 day First Aid Course. Then having several practical scenarios thrown at you on the hill.
I am extremely grateful to the experts that have been involved in my training, and assessment. Although I have had years of experience, it is never too late to learn something new and have your skills and knowledge tested to a high standard.
I am keen now to lead others to places they would like to visit. If you are interested in hiring me, or coming on one of my walking tours, or even joining my community walking group, You will be very welcome.
You never know when that fly wing might come in handy
See you on the next walk,
Andy
January Newsletter
