Andrew's Scilly Isles to Muckle Flugga Blog
To the Ends and beyond
Introduction
I had heard people mention a blog in the context of the internet but hadn’t really known what one was until it was described to me as a diary with a few optional extras e.g. an interactive facility and the inclusion of photographs. Whilst I am not a complete IT phobe, my computer skills have tended to lag significantly behind the vanguard of advances in technology. Hence, it is perhaps not surprising that it has taken me so long to dispense with my pen and paper before experimenting with this modern form of communication by typing a blog. As to the optional extras, I will have to leave that to the IT gurus to reflect upon.
End to Enders are those who have succeeded in walking or cycling from Lands End to John O’Groats (or vice versa). My idea is to go beyond both Lands End and John O’Groats and this is explained in more detail in the blog – hence the title ‘To the Ends and Beyond’.
If you would like to support me and help raise funds for Leonard Cheshire Disability's School 4 All in Africa click on the link below which will take you to Just Giving where you can donation on line.
14th July 2009
For recent press coverage of Andrew's epic adventure please click on the following links:
Thank you letter in the Press and Journal
Article in the Adventure Acticities Cornwall
Report on the Banbury School website
2nd July 2009
MESSAGE from Andrew Fairbairn - "Many thanks to everyone who wrote in to the blog. Unfortunately, it was impractical to reply whilst I was 'on the road'. However, I will respond to everyone individually now I am back."
MESSAGE from webmaster - "A tremendous thank you to everyone who contributed to making this blog a wonderful record of a spectacular achievement by Andrew. I'm sure he'll treasure your comments and photographs forever."
1st July 2009
Further to the write-up in the Shetland News on 27th June, see this follow-up on the 29th June click here
MESSAGE from Brian Croft - "Andrew, Congratulations from the Banbury Rotary and Inner Wheel Mountainering section. Sorry we weren't here to greet you on your return from your epic adventure, but we were on top of Coniston Old Man when we heard your good news. Now that you have done something rather note worthy, I am sure the committee will look on your application to join our select bunch favourably.
I saw first hand how you met your big challenge of the journey when we didn'nt know if you could carry on. You did carry on with little fuss and now you are home. Congratulations Brian"
MESSAGE from John Webb - "So here we are again, all back in Banbury. I have reinstated Maurice and me for Friday Lunch, even though it is an extra £2.50 this week. Maurice and Andrew will return the van today and we will all go back to our respective worlds. I have learned much from Maurice and I trust he has had a little insight into my world which is another facet of working together through Rotary that presents itself when people are brought together for a common good.
There is much good in the world which should get more focus in the press and TV! For us all there was Charlotte and Crispin. Then there was the chap in the cafe who said he was working in "textiles and music" who never pushed himself at all and when I asked him who he sang to he said, "I get workers singing". I let it go at that, but he turned out to be Andy Ross who is not only a famous singer in the Shetlands, but as for "get workers singing" he meant thousands in a concert hall not the local B&Q.
And what about the school children on Fetlar who came to the Wild Dog Cafe every Wednesday after swimming of whom I said to the lady looking after the cafe "This place must be heaving with all those kids in here, how many are in the school?" "Two", she replied! And then there was the bonus of one of the best looking women you will ever see at LCD in ??? No, I won't tell you or you will all be heading north. We loved them and they loved us back and we got a mug and "T" shirt for our trouble.
As for that Michael Punter you make sure that if the fighting starts he is on your side. He is a big bloke with a big heart, and I am sure I speak for Maurice and me when I say we were very pleased to have made his aquaintance and we both wish him well for the future.
There are so many stories to tell that I am sure that Andrew will be able to enthrall audiences and raise the money that has been promised, and he can tell of the time they lost me in the festival in Kirkwall but I spent it very productively making dogs from ballons with the local clown, magic moments!
If any Rotarian is thinking of another challenge let me know. The Andrew Fairbairn Challenge has a "strap" line, but you will have to ask Andrew what it is!"
30th June 2009
Andrew arrives home to explain where he's been for the last four weeks!
MESSAGE from Francois Gallais - "Huge congratulations Andrew, what you have achieved is simply amazing and such an inspiration to all of us at Leonard Cheshire Disability. Thank you so much for all your efforts, energy and commitment in helping to make disabled children's education a reality in Uganda. Thank you too to all your friends, relatives and fellow Rotarians who have given up their time to support you over the last months, especially during the recent weeks. Well done once again & I look forward to seeing you again soon and being able to congratulate you personally."
29th June 2009
MESSAGE from Jane & Mike Bonnick - "Brilliantly done Andrew, what a breathtaking success! Your selflessness and commitment shine brightly as an example to us all and what a wonderful ambassador you are, for all that is worthwhile in the Rotary movement. We're proud to know you. That'll be TWO pints on us, then!! Jane & Mike."
MESSAGE from Jonathan Meredith - "Bloody well done. It was a privilege to be part of the support party. It's not until you're up there with you that one appreciates the enormousity of the task you have achieved........... and to have survived my corn beef sandwiches. Many many congratulations..."
28th June 2009
MESSAGE from Anne Twigg / Pippa - "Well done Andrew what a fantastic adventure and personal achievement for you look forward to seeing you soon best wishes from us both."
MESSAGE from Bob Nurden - "Just got back from our Cornwall holiday, have been keeping up with your progress via Richard. Both Joan and I want to offer you our congratulations on your achievment, what a gutsy performance. Again very well done, look forward to seeing you at our committee meeting next week."
MESSAGE from Philip & Derrick - "Andrew, congratulations on finishing your trek! You've done such a brilliant job keeping steadily going for almost 4 weeks, what an amazing feat of endurance and stamina. The many months of training paid off.
It was great to feel that we were able to support you in person on the Scottish section to raise money for Schools 4 All In Africa. Looking forward to seeing you back in Banbury. Now have some well deserved rest (and a wee dram of single malt of course!) before coming back down South. Very best wishes, Philip & Derrick"
MESSAGE from Geoff Bain - "Congratulations Andrew on a truly remarkable fete of stamina,endurance and will-power. You made it to Muckle Flugga. A 1,180 mile journey and in the timescale you set yourself. An absolutely staggering achievement. We followed your progress every step of the way. A huge cheer from all of us here in Glossop you are an amazing man and one of Rotary's heros. Geoff and Wanda Bain"
MESSAGE from Helen White - "WELL DONE!! Many, MANY congratulations Andrew on a truely amazing achievement - you should be extremely proud of what you have acheived. We hope you're going to treat yourself to something exceptionally nice when you get home :-) Well done once again. Helen and Simon."
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "Great speaking with you last night (Saturday) and to hear that you had completed your challenge. What a fantastic achievement! We are all so proud of you - many, many congratulations. Looking forward to seeing you again in Banbury very soon. Enjoy your couple of rest days - we're sure Marilyn has lots of things lined up for you to do when you get home!
Thanks also to Maurice and John who provided back-up for the last leg of the challenge, and grateful thanks to EVERYONE who has helped Andrew achieve this unique challenge. Your support, kindness and generosity has been outstanding.
Come on Leonard Cheshire - it's now time to get the publicity bandwagon rolling. Andrew deserves national recognition for what he has achieved - a true first - and it can only help him in his fundraising efforts."
MESSAGE from Derek and Stella Fairbairn - "Congratulations, Andrew! We are absolutely delighted. It will be good to see you back home again, but I shall miss reading about your epic journey each day on the computer. Let's hope the sponsorship matches all your effort. Love, Mum and Dad xxx"
MESSAGE from Roy Watkins - "Done it!!!! great achievement not only for Rotary/Leonard Cheshire partnership but for Andrew the individual, from my experiences such challenges are driven by personal codes/beliefs, pushing/extending boundaries, never satisfied with just the mundane. Join the list of remarkably tough men, blessed with fortitude and a special sense of quietness so often found in adventurous people - you know, your nearest and dearest know, we know, but you know better than most. Thank you for being you."
MESSAGE from Ian and Pat Calderbank - "Congratulations Andrew! Well done. You have achieved what most people would consider impossible. Now begins further hard work - raising more donations. Good luck in that too. We look forward to seeing you back in Banbury and hearing more details. Ian and Pat"
MESSAGE from Trevor Wiltshire - "Congratulations Andrew. A great effort. My "Big" brother Tony has kept me posted. Best wishes, Trevor"
MESSAGE from Alan Wolstencroft - "Andrew CONGRATULATONS on your fantastic challenge - when do you start the lap of honour!!?? Education is the first step out of poverty and what you have achieved will benefit children in Uganda who otherwise would not have had an opportunity to take that first step - look forward to seeing you back in Banbury. Alan"
MESSAGE from Crispin and Charlotte -"Congratulations on your tremendous achievement in reaching Muckle Flugga. It is good to know to that Orkney and Shetland are recognised as part of the British Isles. It is great to think that your effort will be helping Ugandan Children. You should try to get there one day. Thanks to Stella and Derek for their offers of hospitality which we reciprocate."
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver -"An amazing achievement. I am full of admiration for you. It must be wonderful to see such a variety of scenery from one end of Britain to the other, and to see it all so intimately as from a kayak, bicycle or walking boots. Love from your big sister. xxx"
27th June 2009
WE DID IT!
Muckle Flugga
Today we cycled the length of the Island of Yell, then paddled over the section from Yell to the Island of Unst which was again subject to a tidal flow which required some care. There was then a shorter cycle ride up to the northern end of Unst where we put the bikes away for the final time and got into the kayaks for the final push out to Muckle Flugga Lighthouse.
When we arrived at said lighthouse, we went round it clockwise and took the opportunity to land at the base and then climb up to the top which gave us a marvellous view of the surrounding coastline. Then for the final time we got back into the kayaks and paddled back to the Island of Unst and a Champagne Reception from our support crew.
I have received tremendous support from my family, from the Rotary Club of Banbury, from many other Rotarians, from Leonard Cheshire Disability and many other people entirely unconnected with Rotary, for which I am very grateful and without which this challenge would not have been possible.
What distinguishes this challenge from others that go from Land’s End to John O’Groats is the additional kayaking sections from the Isles of Scilly to Land’s End and then from mainland Scotland to the Orkney Isles and then up through the Shetland Isles. I would not have been able to do this without the help during training from Michael Punter and for him volunteering to undertake the kayaking sections of the challenge with me even knowing my limitations as a relative novice as a kayaker and I cannot thank him enough for that.
This is basically the end of the challenge but it is only part of the way through the reason for having undertaken it, which is of course raising money for the Schools 4 All in Africa project run by the Leonard Cheshire Disability, with the funding being raised by Rotary. Clearly a lot of money is required for the disabled children in Uganda in order that they can get an education and if anybody is interested in me giving a presentation regarding the challenge I have undertaken I would be very happy to do so.
MESSAGE from John Telford, President of The Rotary Club of Shetland - "See the Shetland News Website for report on Shetland leg so far Shetland-News.co.uk "
MESSAGE from Christine Wincott - "Andrew what an amazing objective you have so successfully self inflicted! I found it pretty much inconceivable when reading through your blog that you could have overcome the setbacks and achieved the journey as planned within the time framework. Sorry to have missed you on Dartmoor and also in Banbury (too training)! Many congrats Andrew and all the very best on your final 'stretch' to Muckle Flugga - but not 'beyond'. Christine (one of your fans)"
26th June 2009
We arrived at Lerwick on Shetland Islands at about 7am to be met by the President and First Vice President of the Rotary Club of Shetland, John Telford and Silvija Crook respectively. Having arranged to meet with them again on Sunday, as they have kindly offered us accommodation, we then drove down to Sumburgh Head at the southern end of the Island. We got our bicycles ready and having had a brief look at Sumburgh lighthouse and the puffins we then cycled the 50 miles or so to Toft at the northern end of the mainland. We then swapped over with the kayaks and paddled over to the island of Yell. There was quite a strong tidal flow necessitating some care and planning with regards to which way to paddle first to ensure that we didn’t end up being swept out to sea.
REPORT from Maurice Humphris – Andrew and Michael have arrived safely at Ulsta on Yell, and we are all off to our B&B. Tomorrow they cycle to Unst and prepare for the final leg to Muckle Flugga."
MESSAGE from Tanya Barron - "Andrew, what you are doing in support of our joint programme is amazing – I cannot thank you enough. Inclusive education is vital for the world’s children and please take with you for the last part of your Challenge my very best wishes and thanks. Tanya Barron, International Director Leonard Cheshire Disability. "
REPORT from Maurice Humphris at 3.00pm - "Andrew and Michael are now getting kayaks ready for short crossing from Toft to Ulsta on Yell. It is still a beautiful day."
MESSAGE from Derek and Stella Fairbairn - "Many thanks to Charlotte and Crispin for feeding and watering our "little boy," Andrew and his friend Michael. It's not everyone who would welcome strangers into their home, and fortify them with a cooked breakfast(and what is stranger than two grown men turning up on the shore in the far north in kayaks, having set out from the Isles of Scilly). If you are ever kayaking, cycling, walking or even travelling by car in the vicinity of Banbury, do get in touch with us and sample the hospitality here. Stella and Derek, Andrew's Mum and Dad"
MESSAGE from Catherine Goodier of Leonard Cheshire Disability - "Andrew congratulations. The physical achievement of your challenge is incredible and your fundraising will change the lives of the children and leave a lasting legacy. With warmest wishes Catherine
REPORT from Maurice Humphris in Sumburgh, Shetland Islands - "We arrived in Lerwick this morning at 7.30am to be greeted by the President and 1st Vice President of the Rotary Club of Shetland. Andrew and Michael have had breakfast and have started cycling from Sumburgh for today’s journey to the Island of Yell.
As John and I stand here in Sumburgh to phone in this report, it is an absolutely wonderful day, the sun is shining and the sea is sparkling. There are lots of Guillemots and Puffins around."
MESSAGE from Janet Matthews - "Almost there! Very well done. Excellent! Congratuations to all involved. Janet M"
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver - "You always did like being out-of-doors but this is taking a love of space and fresh air to the extreme. Immensely impressive, and what wonderful people you've met on your journey. Enjoy your last cycle, and enjoy the rest afterwards. Love from your big sister xxx"
25th June 2009
We cycled today from Stromness to Kirkwall and the strength of the headwind confirmed that our luck in respect of the weather has indeed run out. The wind strength is clearly too strong to risk the sea crossings by kayak and the outlook for next few days is the same.
Consequently, we are catching the ferry this evening to go up to Lerwick on Shetland and then we will complete that section on Friday and Saturday.
MESSAGE from Stella and Derek Fairbairn - "Well done, Andrew! All the best for your final day's effort, then you can rest on the journey all the way back to Overthorpe. Love from Mum and Dad xxx"
MESSAGE from Roy Watkins - "Hi Andrew, feel really guilty, just arrived home from a month on a Greek island and have missed your sterling progress, never doubted you would succeed at any time and I am looking forward to seeing you back in Banbury. Fantastic support from Rotary and I trust from Leonard Cheshire. Of course we will expect you to walk and cycle to Uganda to visit The School 4 All Project!!!! Well done to all involved."
MESSAGE from Crispin and Charlotte - "Breakfast was a rather mundane affair this morning after being entertained by two kayakers yesterday. Good luck with your Shetland leg. We hope it isn't quite so windy there as it is here in Stromness."
REPORT from John Webb - "Andrew and Michael are on the road from Stromness to Kirkwall."
MESSAGE from Malcolm Douglas - "Hi Andrew, WELL DONE, fantastic achievement, you have proved that Rotarians are not all old *****. The rest of us are in awe and just a bit jealous of your guts and determination. Keep it up. Regards Malcolm Douglas"
MESSAGE from Rebecca & Erica Fairbairn - "hey dad!! we hope you are well and we are looking forward for you coming home sometime next week. At the moment, we are waiting to edit our film as the other groups have the computer for 2 hours, and we are going to try and nick one of them after break ;)We hope that you are having a great time and just to let you know all my friends say HI! :) and they say well done to you! love you lots dad xxxx"
MESSAGE from The Office! - "We are all following your progress with great admiration - well done Andrew."
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "Jonathan and Fred. Thanks for all your time and effort in support of Andrew's challenge. Thanks also to all the wonderful local people who have helped Andrew on his way. The challenge couldn't have been done without your help."
24th June 2009
Today we had to have an early start to avoid a tidal race later on in the day, so we were on the water at 5.00am paddling out into the surf which was interesting to say the least. The wind was around force 3/4 and it was quite difficult to paddle into but we enjoyed passing The Old Man of Hoy at around 6.30am and arrived in Stromness about 8.30am having paddled through the low mist.
We found a landing area to park the kayaks and as we were bringing them out of the sea a gentleman came round to have a chat with us. When he heard about our challenge he and his wife invited us into there home. They offered us hot drinks, a full cooked breakfast and a shower. So Scottish hospitality is certainly alive and well on the Orkney Islands. They are Crispin and Charlotte Worthington and a very delightful couple. They were extremely interested to hear about what were doing and apparently heard about the trip that morning on the local radio.
After having had our full breakfast and showers, as we loaded the Kayaks etc into the van, they were outside telling all and sundry as other people walked passed exactly who we were and we ended up having some very pleasant conversations with many local people.
Whilst the people that I have met on route have all been absolutely marvellous, the vast majority of these have been on the basis that it was pre-arranged. On this occasion we effectively just turned up on the door step and both Michael and I were totally taken aback by the warmth, the welcoming reception and the generosity of our hosts for the next hour or so.
On our crossing over and the last couple of days we have seen a lot of wildlife including puffins, a colony of seals and possibly an eagle. Interesting times!
REPORT from Fred Riches - "Jonathan & Fred took over accompaniment duties from Ian & Brian on Saturday night (20th June). We enjoyed excellent hospitality in the Highland Hotel, Fort William (run by a local Rotarian), and dinner with a superb view of Ben Nevis at the home of the Rotary President and his Wife.
Sunday morning and sunny weather saw Andrew start from Fort Augustus and pedal onward alongside Loch Ness before breaking off for tea and biscuits at the Leonard Cheshire Home in Inverness (see pictures on 21st June). Onward and upward, Andrew pedalled on across the Moray, Cromarty and Dornoch Firths, finally calling it a day at Brora after around 90 miles and getting on for 9 hours!
Brian Croft's friends, Ian & Ann Worthy provided us once again with excellent overnight hospitality at their home at Culrain on the Kyle of Sutherland, before Andrew made his final assault on two wheels from Brora along the A9 & A99 coast road to his final mainland destination of John o' Groats, arriving mid afternoon.
Thereafter we deposited Andrew with two friendly Rotarians in Wick to await the arrival of Maurice & John, plus kayak partner Michael, ready for a hopeful high pressure window and Tuesday morning embarkation at Scrabster en route for the Orkneys & Shetlands.
Well done that man and best wishes for the last sea legs!"
REPORT from John Webb - "We were a little concerned this morning as we were unable to find Andrew and Michael, but we need not have worried. They had made land in Stromness and had been taken in by some very hospitable but complete strangers (Crispin and Charlotte Worthington), who helped them remove the kayaks from the water. When we eventually tracked them down they had been treated to a wonderful cooked breakfast. All is now back on course, and Andrew is again in the safe hands of the undertaker and the organ grinder!"
23th June 2009
Last night in Wick, Maurice and John stayed with Jan Banks, the President of The Rotary Club of Wick. Michael Hunter and I stayed nearby with Sandy and Susan Manson, also from the Rotary Club of Wick. As per normal they were all excellent hosts and were able to give us some interesting local information. The wonderful views over Wick harbour were a nice distraction from the exertions of yesterday.
This morning we set off by kayak from Scrabster Harbour at 9.10am in a mist and although we had set the bearing, it was a good feeling when the sun cleared the mist and we could see the Isle of Hoy ahead of us. It was a long paddle with the tide taking us first one way and then the other and then we arrived at a beach near a hamlet called Rackwick, I was totally exhausted. We are camping here this evening and it is an idyllic location with very few people around to bother us. We are just around the corner from The Old Man of Hoy and, fingers crossed, we will paddle past it tomorrow morning as make our way to Stromness.
MESSAGE from Sally Watts - "Andrew - what a magnificent achievement thus far. You are truly amazing!"
REPORT from John Webb and Maurice Humphris - "Andrew has made it safely to the Island of Hoy in the Orkneys where he will be resting the night before departing for Stromness tomorrow."
MESSAGE from Janet Matthews - "Hi Andrew, pleased to learn you have almost completed your journey. I spoke to Marilyn last night to catch up on your progress and have also read through your blog. Look forward to hearing all about it once you are home. Best wishes, Janet"
MESSAGE from Simon and Helen White - "Andrew - how proud we are to have been a small, tiny part of your huge, epic adventure. What you have achieved so far is amazing. Congratulations on making the brave and prudent decision re kyaking from Orkney to Shetland. Discretion is the better part of valour when Mother Nature is concerned. Can't wait to hear of your final success. Muckle Flugga, eh? Who'd have thought! Big up to Philip on WHW in five days. From someone who has done it twice, THAT is one hell of an achievement for a first-time long-distance walker. Keep going, Andrew, not far now. S + H."
REPORT from John Webb and Maurice Humphris - "Andrew and Michael have set off from Scrabster to paddle to Orkney and we are sitting in the Seaman's Mission drinking coffee before catching the ferry to Kirkwall."
MESSAGE from Philip & Derrick - "Andrew, congratulations on getting to John O'Groats and joining the merry band of End to Enders. Have a safe crossing to the Orkneys and keep dry! All best wishes, Philip & Derrick."
MESSAGE from Jane & Mike Bonnick - " Andrew, we wish you every success and a safe crossing for this, the final leg of your long journey. What a fantastic achievement!
We feel tremendously privileged that we could be there and provide support for you, Philip and the team on the WHW section.
A pint on us awaits you at Banbury Cherwell!! Jane & Mike."
MESSAGE from Alan Wolstencroft - "CONGRATULATIONS Andrew - hope the rest of the epic journey is a success - keep up the great work. Best wishes. Alan."
MESSAGE from John Meeres - "Hi Andrew, as reserve on the support team the caravan and I were not needed after all and your "Walkabout" over the hills and far away on a leg and a half is now behind you. Fantastic performance Andrew! So let the paddling begin. The warm salty water from the Gulf Stream should do that dodgy shin problem a power of good. Bon Voyage today for the launch today from Scrabster Beach, an old swimming haunt of mine back in the early sixties whilst on the Dounreay projects. Keep an eye on the jellyfish!"
MESSAGE from Stella and Derek Fairbairn - "Congratulations, Andrew, on becoming an "End to Ender" (plus the stretch from the Scillies to Land's End)! Good luck for the rest of your journey. We are really proud of your achievement.Love, Mum and Dad xxx"
22th June 2009
Last night we stayed at a remote cottage in Culrain near Ardgay on the east coast of Scotland with Ian and Ann Worthy. Ian is from the Pennines and Ann was born in London. It is somewhat incongruous that such a delightfully spoken lady as Ann is living in this remote area but they both seem to like the isolation very much and there are I understand many activities in the village.
When it was time for me to go to bed, Ann commented that the bed was magic. In the room there was also a large wardrobe, and this then reminded me of one of my favourite childhood books, “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe”. Whether or not the bed was magic, I slept like a log.
Today I had a straightforward journey by bicycle from Brora to John O’Groats today although the mist came down and the views were lost. I still plan to kayak tomorrow from the Mainland to Orkney going from Scrabster passing the island of Hoy to Stromness. I hope to see the Old Man of Hoy.
Current wind and weather conditions however will mean the crossing from Orkney to Shetland by kayak will not be possible. The current revised plan is on Wednesday to go from Stromness to Kirkwall by kayak and then on Thursday take the ferry from Kirkwall to Lerwick, Shetland. I will then cycle through Shetland and kayak to Muckle Flugga as planned.
REPORT from Maurice Humphris, The Rotary Club of Banbury. - "Maurice and fellow Rotarian John Webb left Banbury yesterday to join Andrew in Wick. They had a good flight from East Midlands to Inverness and everybody met up at the Leonard Cheshire Disability Home in Inverness.
This morning they had a good journey getting out of Inverness but after about 50 miles the mist came down and the rain and the scenery should have been very nice but they couldn't see it. They arrived safely in Wick and all met up there.
Andrew of course spent last night in Brora. He set out on bicycle this morning and safely reached Wick and then John O’Groats. Andrew still plans to kayak to Orkney tomorrow but weather conditions mean a change of plan with ferry from Kirkwall to Lerwick."
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "Had a call from Andrew this evening having reached his mainland goal in John O'Groats. He sounded extremely happy and has achieved this through an absolutely fantastic physical and mental effort which by virtue of the Scillies to Lands End kayak leg has probably set a record - normally done by others from Lands End to John O'Groats. Well done Andrew. Get the kayaking under your belt tomorrow, hopefully, and the end is in sight. That'll be a real first and a record for others to follow. Good luck Michael and thanks for your support to Andrew on the kayaking legs.
Thanks also to Mike and Jane Bonnick from the Rotary Club of Banbury Cherwell for your help and support along the WHW."
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver - " Greetings from Singapore. Hot and humid here. I've been dining with Scots. They tried to convince me the weather's been really good in Scotland recently. I hope your leg begins to recover as you're walking less. Love from your big sister xxx"
MESSAGE from Philip Fine, fellow WHW walker - "It was a great pleasure to accompany Andrew (and when he was cycling to rest his shin, Ian and Brian from Banbury Rotary) on the West Highland Way. The banter from all of my walking companions kept my mind off the rain and wind (at least the weather during the walk kept the midges away!) and the views and landscape definitely made it worthwhile. A wonderful feeling coming into Fort William, and in the sunshine too. And the most amazing thing? The number of blisters I got was zero!
Andrew is doing an amazing job of raising sponsorship for LCD Schools 4 All in Africa, and I'm so pleased to be able to increase the amount raised for such a worthy cause. Thanks to all those who have sponsored me and Andrew.
Thanks too to Derrick, Jane and Mike who were a great support to me whilst Banbury Rotary were supporting Andrew. Couldn't have done it without you guys ferrying me around and supplying me with luxury packed lunches!
Good luck to Andrew for the final cycling and kayaking phases of his trek."
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "Andrew, you are a brick and your performance is phenomenal. Pity about the shin splints but the walking section is over and you covered the miles one way or another. Good luck today for the push to John O'Groats and let's hope for some calm seas for the final leg. Ian & Brian, thanks for all your time and effort in support of Andrew's challenge.
Philip Fine, what a performance. Pity about the weather but hope you enjoyed the experience. You'll know what's coming when we do it next year.
Grateful thanks on behalf of Andrew and all at the Rotary Club of Banbury to members of all other Rotary Clubs 'up north' who have helped Andrew and team. Together we all make a difference."
21th June 2009
We had a very enjoyable evening and dinner provided by Paul and his wife Helen last night. They have stunning views across Loch Linnhe with Ben Nevis "in cloud" in the background.
The weather today has been much kinder and this provided stunning views along Loch Ness all the way to Inverness.
We had a very warm welcome at the Leonard Cheshire Disability Home in Inverness and met some of the residents who were pleased to sit down and have a chat with us.
The afternoon was a bit of a struggle but I was able to reach Brora, on the A9, leaving just under 70 miles to go to John O'Groats tomorrow. At present the outlook for the kayaking on Tuesday also looks promising.
MESSAGE from Stella and Derek Fairbairn - "We are glad that your leg does not seem to be troubling you now. Sorry that you missed Adrian's BBQ yesterday. Hope someone brought you a cup of tea in bed this morning for Fathers' Day! Won't be long now before you are home again. Well done! Love, Mum and Dad xxx"
20th June 2009
First of all anyone who has been supporting or sponsoring Philip Fine in aid of Schools 4 All in Africa, please note that he successfully completed the West Highland Way today. This has been his first long distance walk and he has undertaken it in far from ideal conditions with strong winds and heavy rain throughout three of the five days. He should be congratulated for completing the walk.
Today,as planned, armed with a leg support bandage and some strong medication, I tested my leg walking and up until lunch everything was going well. At about that time I began to feel some discomfort and therefore took some more medication. After about half an hour the pain in my shin went completely and I didn’t feel any pain throughout the rest of the day. It is probably good that I am not undertaking anymore walking so I do not need to repeat the medication again. After we finished the walking section at Fort William I then got on the bicycle and continued to Fort Augustus thereby making the next two days cycling easier.
At Fort William we were met by the President and other members of The Rotary Club of Lochaber who gave us a very warm welcome and hopefully will generate some publicity in the local newspaper. We will be having an evening meal with the president Paul Brian and his wife Helen later on this evening.
MESSAGE from John Webb - "Hello Andrew. Glad to hear that you are doing so well but sorry about the leg problem. I trust all will be better soon. Maurice and I will be with you on Monday God willing, and we will do our best, as all the other support crews have done, to see that your wish and aim is accomplished. A bit of good news unassociated with your trip is that my submission to the Oxfordshire Business Awards in the "sustainability" category on behalf of Fired Earth and the Christopher Rawlins School in Adderbury won the trophy last night which goes to show that Rotarians make things happen for the local, national and worldwide community, just like you are doing now! What a great association we are! So when the wind is in your face, and the going is a bit tough remember the support you have and the happy band who are Banbury Rotary Club sharing all our joys and hardships together and winning in the end. Regards, John "
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver - "Sorry to hear you're getting so wet. Hope you get some sunshine in Scotland to enjoy the views. We'll miss you today, at Adrian's party. Love from your big sister. xxx"
19th June 2009
I have rested my leg again today and cycled from Bridge of Orchy to Kinlochleven. The weather has been abysmal with torrential driving rain and heavy winds. Cycling down Glencoe should have been an easy freewheel but in fact it was a struggle to make progress against the headwind. However, another day under the belt and tomorrow I will try the leg out again walking on the section from Kinlochleven to Fort William.
MESSAGE from Derek and Stella Fairbairn - "We were sorry to hear about your shin trouble. We hope the pain disappears soon. You are working your way up the map - you will run out of land soon! Looking forward to seeing back in Overthorpe before too long. Love, Mum and Dad"
REPORT from Graham Anker, The Rotary Club of Banbury. Re 14th - 17th June -
"Ron Sharpe and I have now safely returned to Oxfordshire with another 987 miles on my car's clock and both of us are humbled and amazed to think that Andrew has already travelled so very far under his own steam yet when we left him, mid way up the Eastern side of Loch Lomond in the pouring rain, he looked as fit as when we had last seen him standing in front of Banbury Cross on Sunday.
'The Weary Sportsman' was a pub just a few yards away from our overnight stop on Sunday 14th in Castle Carrock where the Brian Edmundson from the Rotary Club of Carlisle and his wife Marian had put us up for the night in their lovely Victorian home with a fine supper before bed.
On the morning of Monday 15th, whilst Ron transported Andrew up to a revised start point to the north of Lockerbie, Graham travelled into the Red Light district of Carlisle where he had been assured he would find what he was looking for.......a cycle shop selling a special performance/endurance additive which Andrew mixes with water and sips from time to time. After some searching amongst several boarded up premises the recommended shop was found, next to 'Thongs and Things' a shop with items on display that Graham had never seen before in his sheltered life. When the cycle shop opened Graham purchased the goods and then telephoned Ron to find out where he was. He then ventured forth through the thunder lightning and hail storm which followed.
In time all three met up and continued up towards Glasgow with Ron and Graham playing leapfrog with Andrew until the outskirts of the city whereupon Ron decided to go on a scenic route and got lost! Graham tried hard to lose Andrew at every traffic light controlled junction however Andrew always seemed to catch up and eventually both arrived at Marks and Spencer's car park in Milngavie, which was the destination for the day and the start point for the West Highland Way. Ron who had by then seen all the Glasgow sights, and at one time almost reached Stirling, followed Graham and Andrew to the nearest filling station as by then the diesel in the van was almost exhausted. Then it was onwards to Greenock, some miles to the west, where all three stayed with friends of Owen Kyffin.
At first light on Tuesday 16th it was back to Milngavie for a photo alongside the start point of the West Highland Way with the President of the Rotary Club of Allander, Andrew and Philip (Andrew's walking companion for part of WHW). We then waited for a while for Ron who had Andrew's walking boots in the van; however on not being able to reach him either via his or the van's mobile they decided to set off on the walk with Andrew in his trainers. Jane Bonnick of the Rotary Club of Banbury Cherwell, Derrick and Graham sat down for a coffee as the next place where the West Highland Way was crossed by road was about 6 miles to the north. In due course Graham, Jane and Derrick met up with Andrew and Philip, gave them a pat on the back and sent them away again having identified and agreed another meeting point where a road crossed near a pub. Ron was contacted and found the pub. Andrew donned his walking shoes and disappeared along the path. The day continued in a similar fashion and ended with a sumptuous meal on a campsite with Mike Bonnick in charge of catering. Thousand of midges later descended so we departed to nearby Balmaha and a well appointed 'bunkhouse' for the night.
Although Tuesday's weather had been fairly good the heavens opened on Wednesday 17th and seemed to be set in for the day. Philip returned to the Bonnick campsite to rejoin Andrew for the day’s walk. Agreement was reached to meet up again at a hotel at the end of the easterly road alongside Loch Lomond, although not with the van as that was too big to be able to negotiate the road. Upon arrival at the hotel there was at first no member of staff to be found, however a secretary who had joined the staff at the beginning of the week took pity and directed us to the dining room where buckets collecting rainwater were all around. She prepared coffee for Ron and Graham and then for Andrew and Philip when they arrived along with some croissants and jam. We said our farewells to Andrew and Philip knowing that the capable Ian Calderbank, who we had seen the evening before in Balmaha, would be meeting the travellers a little later on further up Loch Lomond. When the van had been collected it was transported down, around and up to by the south and west of the loch ending north at Tyndrum where Ian and Brian Croft would be staying. Andrew was telephoned from time to time to check his progress as for much of the trek alongside Loch Lomond there are no roads or crossing points. The back up team of Graham and Ron then returned to Banbury."
18th June 2009
Day 17 and up until now I have been fortunate not to have had any injuries other than minor blisters. Unfortunately, towards the end of yesterday’s walk I was slowing down to due to a pain on one of my shins. I had hoped that this would have recovered overnight but having walked several miles today I was again being hindered by the pain and unable to walk at a pace sufficiently fast enough to contemplate walking the entire day. Accordingly, I tried the bike and thankfully did not have the same discomfort. I think all that is wrong is a swelling from repetitively banging my feet down on the ground when walking which is a problem I do not have when on the bike. Therefore I was able to complete the day to Bridge of Orchy as planned.
The weather has been pretty abysmal with the rain coming down in torrential sheets, although there have been one or two times during the day when there have been reasonable gaps.
MESSAGE from Elga Schlag in Hennef (Germany) - "Hello Andrew, I am a friend of Ron Barnett's and he has been showing me all the wonderful journey that you have been doing. I wish you very much luck and success for the rest of your adventure. Elga."
MESSAGE from Malcolm Douglas - "Hey Andrew, forget the stretch trousers. I want to be your agent on the fitness video. We`ll make a bomb. Jane Fonda eat your heart out. Regards Malcolm, alias Mr 10%."
MESSAGE from Brian and Marian Edmundson, The Rotary Club of Carlisle - "Andrew - it was great to have you, Graham and Ron with us here in Castle Carrock on Sunday. You are quite some guy and we have no doubt whatsoever that you will complete your mission to Muckle Flugga and reach your financial target. (We assume Graham negotiated his way through Carlisle for the energy drink and Ron managed to steer the wagon without cramp in those long legs of his!). Congratulations on what you have achieved so far, good luck with the remainder of the journey and very best wishes to all at Banbury RC who have supported such a daring project. P.S. I have a couple of photos for the Blog - which I will email to Ron B in Banbury."
MESSAGE from Sally Watts - "Good to hear from you yesterday evening - you sound in really good spirits. Watch out for the wild haggis! Have a malt for Richard when you get to Fort Bill. Can't believe it's a year since we were there with you and Marilyn. Love Sally."
17th June 2009
Every cloud has a silver lining and we certainly had plenty of clouds today with driving rain for most of the morning and into the early afternoon. The silver lining was that we had no midges.
The walk up from Balmaha to Inverarnan goes alongside the eastern shore of Loch Lomond which is always a pleasant place to be because if you are driving by car up into Scotland you always drive along the western side. It was a reasonably long day amounting to some twenty or so miles and the ground was hard under foot but the views, when we did have the sunshine, were magnificent.
MESSAGE from Ron Middleditch - "Well done on the progress so far. I've put in a request for some good weather for your sea crossing. Kind regards. Ron, Lesley and Rhianna. "
MESSAGE from Janet Matthews - "Have been on the phone to Marilyn on a couple of occasions to monitor your progress and she mentioned this blog. Wishing you all the best with the rest of your journey. Keep up the good work. Janet, Evelyn & Liz Matthews."
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver -"You look just as fit and relaxed at the Kirkstone Pass as you did in Banbury. Amazing. Love from your big sister xxx"
16th June 2009
Today’s report was prepared by Jane Bonnick of the Rotary Club of Banbury Cherwell.
West Highland Way. Today started at around 8.30 this morning in Milngavie at the start of the West Highland Way with Andrew, Graham, Philip, Derrick, Jane and also John (from the Rotary Club of Allander), waiting for the arrival of Ron in the support van. Andrew had his trainers on and was hoping for the arrival of his boots from the support van before setting of. (The well used boots would have been quicker arriving under their own steam but for being locked in the errant van).
Andrew and Philip set off without Andrew’s boots but we agreed to meet at the first road crossing of the West Highland Way about 5 miles along the trail. Meanwhile Derrick, Graham and Jane retired for a cup of coffee to await Ron’s arrival unable to contact him by any of the new fangled technology available to them (Ron’s mobile phone and the mobile phone in the van). They eventually discovered that Ron had orbited Glasgow again and back by Milngavie arriving south at the apparently well known petrol station for a further fill-up.
Ron received directions to the first meeting place and missed it! The walkers had been and gone by the time the support cars (2) met up with the van. They then headed off in convoy to the next agreed stopping point, with Graham’s BMW leading the way at a snail’s pace, so as not to lose the van again, causing a very unpopular tail back at 35mph. They met at the agreed stopping point, which was a pub. Curiously Ron had no problem this time.
Finally Andrew received his boots and they continued a successful walk in a sunny day.
MESSAGE from Owen Kyffin - "Andrew I cannot believe the progress you are making - I am knackered just observing! Well done and keep up the amazing effort. I am confident for your next few days as if I can make the West Highland Way I have no doubt you will breeze it - just don't go to the bar in Tyndrum with Martin Phillips or it will slow you down (well it did me!)"
MESSAGE from Tony Wiltshire - "Andrew, sorry I lost your hat on the way to Gloucester! When you get back I will buy you a nice new white sun hat. Keep eating the fruit cake and mackerel sandwiches! Thinking of you! Tony W"
MESSAGE from Maurice O'Connor - "Dear Andrew, I have not looked at your blog for several days now, only to find you are well past the half way point, well done. It is wonderful to read about all the people and places you have visited. The comments form your regular supporters must be one source of your inspiration but you seem to be so driven in this challenge, it is a wonder that you stop at all! There is goodness in people and the Rotarians you have met along the way are a credit to the Organisation. Keep it up I look forward to the next installment. Best wishes. Maurice"
MESSAGE from Roger Worrall - "Hi Andrew I wish I could be with you unfortunately work has kept me away. Well done, my and Bevereley's thoughts are with you. We wish you well for the rest of your challenge."
MESSAGE from Philip Cavill - "Annie Phillips, Ian Rodrick and myself arrived back in Banbury at 11.00 pm on Sunday evening after 3 days acting as support crew for the boys and 5 days walking with Andrew for Annie. All of us were astounded at Andrews focus and determination to keep ahead of schedule. As for his fitness stamina.... well it is astounding. On the cycle from Windemere to Moffat, north of Gretna he travelled 88 miles in one day... including the 1081 ft climb through Kirkstone Pass. We wish you good luck for the rest of your epic adventure. Well done so far. Phil"
MESSAGE from Alan Wolstencroft - "Andrew. We missed you on the gate at Banbury Show on Sunday - were you busy doing something else!!?? Seriously mate your progress is truly amazing, you are "making a real difference" and we are ALL so proud that you are a Banbury Rotarian putting "Service above Self" - Congratulations and best wishes for the rest of your Challenge. Alan"
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "Graham & Ron. Thanks for all your time and effort in support of Andrew's challenge. Andrew, a fantastic performance thus far. Keep going. Hopefully the weather will be good so that the WHW trek should be very enjoyable for all. The end will soon be in sight."
15th June 2009
Our hosts last night, Brian and Marian Edmundson, live in a pretty village a few miles east of Carlisle. They are in a strategic position and offer accommodation to cyclists and walkers traveling the length and breadth of the country. They provide a very welcome and comfortable staging post.
The cycle up to Glasgow along the Clyde Valley Scenic Route should be quite pleasant but it is perhaps an indication of the dampness of the day that I hardly saw any other cyclists all day. The delights of facing driving rain for several hours was only surpassed by the intricacies of endeavouring to navigate through Glasgow, at least as difficult as any navigation exercise I have had to undertake in the mountains. However I have arrived at Milngavie "pronounced Mullguy" which is the start of the West Highland Way and hope for better weather tomorrow when I put my walking boots back on.
MESSAGE from Annie - "I have just spent a great week walking with one very focused Andrew Fairbairn, it was a tough weeks walk but worth every step. We were supported along the way by some very kind people. A big thank you to Stephen & Clare for the use of their cottage in Hope and a lovely meal at the local pub. A big thank you to Geoff & Wanda Bain of Glossop Rotary Club, who looked after us so well for two nights along the way. I wish Andrew the very best for the rest of his fantastic challenge. Cheers for now Annie"
MESSAGE from Gray O'Hanlon - "It was a great honour to meet Andrew and to join him and Paul Bates at the 'converted cinema'. The Daffodil restaurant was previously an art-deco cinema, a memory of teenage years. By coincidence, Jeanette Bates had given a presentation to my club the Tuesday before Andrew's arrival in Gloucester Docks. Good Luck to Andrew and all your back up team. Gray O'Hanlon, RC Cheltenham Sunrise"
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "Ian & Phil.Thanks for all your time and effort in support of Andrew's challenge."
14th June 2009
Three milestones have passed today. The first was somewhat unwanted. Having behaved throughout the training and for 5½ days of the journey, the rear tyre announced that it had had enough with an explosive bang and immediate total deflation.
On a positive note, at some time during the day I passed the halfway mark in terms of mileage and also crossed into Scotland. In order to reduce the mileage for tomorrow I cycled on to within 1 mile of Beattock.
The first task of the day was to climb to the head of the Kirkstone Pass, such early morning strenuous activity was made much more pleasant by the wonderful scenery. There was then the delight of the 1 in 5 drop down to Ullswater. Normally, I take full advantage of these situations and refrain from using the brakes, but as I went round one bend meeting a caravan coming up the other way on my side of the road I decided to be a bit more cautious on the occasion.
MESSAGE from Derek and Stella Fairbairn - "You seem to be making good mileage, in spite of a problem front wheel. Have you thought of doing wheelies, to take the weight off it?! Hope you get the problem sorted out soon. Love, Mum and Dad xxx"
13th June 2009
Up until yesterday we had surprisingly seen very few people on the Pennine Way given that it was the second week of June. That all changed with Malham Cove and Malham Tarn which are both relatively accessible from the road and attract school groups and tourists alike. Most of them appeared to be having a very enjoyable time. However when we got up to Malham Tarn I happened to say to two people sitting alongside us that I hoped they would have a very good day. One of them retorted "well we would have done but our friends have just turned up."
Horton in Ribblesdale was also overrun today with walkers undertaking the Three Peaks Event. As we started walking it was clear that some of them must have been up very early because as we were walking across the Fells they were already coming down from Pen-y-ghent.
The walk today was pleasant and straight forward involving little climbing and was only 14 miles. The itinerary stated that we would finish at Hawes but given the relatively short distance I decided to take the opportunity to get on the bike and cycled on to Windermere even though I needed a new inner tube and tyre. The front wheel seems to be jinxed!
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver - "Not many people talk about a walk being ONLY 14 miles! It's good to hear of familiar places and imagine you enjoying the amazing views. Keep it up. Love from your big sister xxx"
12th June 2009
Today we swapped the peat and gritstone of the Peak District for the limestone and Calendar Girls of Skipton, not that we saw any of the latter. The morning comprised a gentle stroll through valleys alongside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the River Aire. It was generally peaceful and relaxing.
In contrast in the afternoon we were treated to the massive escarpment at Malham Cove and enjoyed a pleasant lunch break in the tranquil setting of Malham Tarn. Thereafter there was a long pull up onto Fountains Fell, and the real sting in the tale as we ascended the nose of Pen-y-ghent protected by its rocky scars. The walk down to Horton in Ribblesdale was lengthy and it was a pleasant feeling to arrive there after 25 miles.
MESSAGE from Stella and Derek Fairbairn - "We are following your diary with great interest each day. We hope you don't take any more wrong turnings, which make your journey even longer! We are going on a somewhat shorter journey tomorrow - to Salisbury. But we shall do it the easy way - by coach! It makes us tired just reading about your exploits! Love, Mum and Dad xxx"
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "Michael and Martin. Thanks for all your time and effort in support of Andrew's challenge. Annie, it's great that you have been able to keep Andrew company. Hope you enjoyed the walking and those wonderful views. Thanks also to all Rotary Clubs and members who have supported Andrew and team from Banbury to Thornton in Craven. Much appreciated by all."
MESSAGE from Erica and Rebecca - "Hi Dad, we think you are doing really well and we really miss you! Good to see you on Sunday and it was nice chatting to you at the meal. Try folding your socks further down your legs so that they are not so high up. It will make you look cooler. Fashion statement! All the best until you finish. Love you lots. Becks and Ez. xo (hugs and kisses)."
11th June 2009
The logistics of getting to and from accommodation, to and from the start and finish points each day has been quite difficult on the Pennine Way due to the distance involved and the level of traffic. This has resulted in much earlier mornings and later nights than had been anticipated. Consequently I split today's section into two parts and cycled the first section from Hebden Bridge to Ponden and then walked the second section to Thornton-in-Craven.
Whilst the cycling part was designed to recover some of the time lost in traffic, I missed the turn going out of Hebden Bridge and immediately lost 40 minutes. Today's route was across Brontë country and there were many references to Wuthering Heights etc. We did encounter some rain during the day but that was quickly lost in a drying wind.
Annie Phillips was enjoying the walk so much that after lunch she started to walk back the way we had come which amused her husband Martin no end.
This evening we are back with our hosts Geoff and Wanda Bain who are again being very generous and supportive.
MESSAGE from Geoff Bain - "Good to welcome you and your friends as you arrived at Crowden; looking so fit and relaxed after your long trek over Kinder Scout and Bleaklow. The Rotary Club of Glossop are pleased to sponsor you and we wish you well in the rest of your challenge "To go to the ends and beyond". Geoff Bain President Rotary Club of Glossop."
MESSAGE from Brian Croft - "Andrew, I have just remembered about a potential problem on the West Highland Way which you may know about but perhaps you don't. On the east side of Loch Lomond about 1 mile north of Rowardennan the path splits. DO NOT TAKE THE WESTERN PATH ALONG THE LOCH SIDE. Last year we took the eastern route and gained more than an hour on two very fast walkers. This was in not much more than 1 mile. Keep walking and I will see you at the end of Loch Lomond. Brian Croft"
10th June 2009
Our hosts last night were the President of the Rotary Club of Glossop and his wife, Geoff and Wanda Bain. We enjoyed an excellent evening including a three course meal. They were kind enough to offer us additional accommodation which we were delighted to accept as our plans for Thursday evening had gone awry.
The day started with a long walk up to Black Hill which was in the mist and we encountered some rain, but generally the conditions were favourable for walking. On the walk up from Wessendon Reservoir we had a fly-by by the Red Arrows. I didn't know that they were aware of our itinerary, but obviously the information had leaked out.
It was a long day, some 26 miles but we finished in fine fettle until we had sat down and then stood up again. Twelve hours to recover!
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver - "You looked so relaxed in Banbury - nobody could guess you'd canoed and cycled so far! But you'll need to travel south by your own steam too, if you're going to have an even sun tan. Walking in the Pennines sounds wonderful. A far cry from walking through a grid locked London during a tube strike. Love from your big sister xxx"
MESSAGE from Stella Fairbairn - "What a shame about the punctures! Have you considered ditching the bike and getting a penny-farthing with solid tyres? Hope you find less problems with the walking. Love, Mum and Dad, xxx"
MESSAGE from Marilyn - "Lovely to see you on Sunday, Andrew, and thank you for the bag of laundry. I look forward to receiving further such presents from you in due course! Congratulations so far, and good luck for the rest of your journey - only 2½ more weeks and not long before we have our family holiday in Cyprus. Your ever loving wife, Marilyn xxx"
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "Andrew. A difficult and long cycling day over but you did extremely well given the problems. Glad that the walking is going well and hopefully it will give you some respite before getting back on the bike. Keep going, there are many people following your Challenge story."
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "David and Tony. Thanks for all your time and effort in support of Andrew's challenge."
9th June 2009
Yesterday was by far the most difficult in physical terms to date and it was with some relief, after five days in the saddle, to put on a pair of walking boots. We were lucky with the weather and walked the route from Edale to Crowden via Kinder Scout. In bad weather this can be tricky but we had very good visibility and the navigation was straight forward, particularly as it was undertaken by somebody else.
After the rigours of yesterday the 16 miles almost seemed like a rest day which I felt I was in need of. The Rotary Club of Glossop together with Inner Wheel were there to greet us in Crowden and typical of the challenge to date were very supportive, welcoming and interested in how we were getting on.
MESSAGE from Catherine Goodier - "Andrew what you are doing is brilliant. You are really walking (cycling and kayaking) the talk and showing how much you believe that everyone has a responsibility to make the world's children their priority and to find their own way to contribute to their future. All the very best C"
MESSAGE from Paul Bates - "Hi Andrew - Jeanette and I enjoyed your company at the weekend. I will publish your journey log etc in the August edition of Cotswold Style Magazine. I know Jeanette, my wife, on behalf of Leonard Cheshire are most grateful for your fundraising--enjoy the rest of your journey. Gray O'Hanlon send regards from Cheltenham Sunrise."
8th June 2009
An early start at 6.20am, but unfortunately due to a collapsed crane across a road the support vehicle was prevented from getting to me for several hours. In the meantime I had a second puncture which I repaired.
After about another 15 miles I had a third puncture in the same inner tube and as the support vehicle was now with me I gave up on that inner tube and swapped bikes and used the reserve bike up to Uttoxeter. The Rotary Club there was out in force in the town centre and whilst I was having a drink and a chat with their members and those of Inner Wheel someone took the main bike to a cycle shop and had a new inner tube put in.
3 miles beyond Uttoxeter I had a puncture in the new inner tube and had to swap bikes again. By the time I got to Ashbourne, somewhat frustrated and beginning to flag, the situation had been retrieved and I was back on the main bike.
The next 13 or 14 miles were the best cycling of the day on the Tissington Trail which is a disused railway track and forms a very gentle gradient up into the Pennines with fabulous views. Unfortunately there was then a sting in the tale as the last few miles were continually up and down, and it was with some relief when I realised that I only had the 1 in 10 downward slope to get into Edale and the start of the Pennine Way at the Old Nags Head.
We stayed that evening in a Bungalow in Hope kindly provided by one of the members of the Rotary Club of Banbury who also arranged for us to have a very welcome meal in the local pub.
MESSAGE from David Hitchcox - "The journey from Leamington Spa to Uttoxeter was not without a few happenings, with a crane across our route around Birmingham and Andrew having three punctures on the way. During this time we were in contact with Paul Archer the President of the Uttoxeter Rotary Club. Because of these events the timing of Andrews arrival kept changing.
Eventually at about 12.30 Andrew arrived at Uttoxeter Market Place to be greeted by a number of Rotarians resplendent in bright Rotary tabards and also some ladies of the Inner Wheel Club. They had laid on publicity and refreshments and a very friendly group of Rotarians made us very welcome. They were also able to direct us to a nearby old style bicycle repair shop which was able to fit a new inner tube to help Andrew on his way. Before we left both the Rotary Club and the Inner Wheel club made a generous donation to Andrew’s fund for Leonard Cheshire Disability."
MESSAGE from Stella Fairbairn - "Lovely to see you yesterday, Andrew, and looking so fit. We think that cycling seems to suit you. You should keep it up after you get home - no more than 50 miles a day would be about right! We are all in admiration of what you are doing. Love, Mum and Dad. xxx"
MESSAGE from Joanne Higgs - "Thinking of you Andrew. Keep well Jo."
MESSAGE from Anna Jackson - "Sincere congratulations on the first paddle, and good luck with the current stage. Will be following the weather as you near the top section - Listen to the Big Man - even I have to sometimes these days! Very Best Wishes - Anna Jackson (Michael's little sister!)."
MESSAGE from Geoff Bain, President Rotary Club of Glossop - "Andrew and co. Looking forward to meeting you at Crowden on Tuesday 9th June.Best Wishes for your assault on the Pennine Way. B&B arranged for four of you with President Geoff and Wanda. A warm welcome awaits."
MESSAGE from Malcom Douglas - "Hi Andrew and Gang, Your doing a great job and good PR for Banbury Rotary Club, also you`ll have thighs like tree trunks so you will need special stretch trousers! Always on the lookout for a sales opportunity. Keep going, Regards Malcolm."
7th June 2009
We started out in the rain which receded as we got up onto the Cotswolds. This was a big day as the route went through my home town, Banbury. It was great to see my family, many Rotarians and other supporters as I cycled down to Banbury Cross.
I then went on to a reception at the Leonard Cheshire Disability Home in the town centre.
We arrived later on in the afternoon at Leamington Spa, and my wife Marilyn, my twin girls and one of my sons came over for a meal. It hadn’t been much more than a week since I had seen them but had seemed a lot longer.
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "President Richard sends greetings and thanks to all Rotary clubs and members who supported Andrew to the south of Banbury. He arrived in Banbury fit and well at around 12:20pm Sunday and after a shortish stop was cycling on to Leamington Spa for his overnight stop."
MESSAGE from Richard Watts, President the Rotary Club of Banbury - "John, Paul & Ron. Thanks for all your time and effort in support of Andrew's challenge."
6th June 2009
The day started off with a bit of rain but otherwise the weather was fine save for cycling into a headwind. We visited the Leonard Cheshire Disability Home at Axbridge and had a very warm welcome from the Manager and the local Rotary Club.
Andrew receiving a cheque from President Peter Wright of the Rotary Club of Mendip. The photograph was taken this morning when Andrew called in at St Michaels Cheshire Home, Axbridge halfway on his days cycle from Taunton to Gloucester. In addition to Andrew's supporters who are on either side, the rotarians are from the left as you look at it Alan Parfitt, Mark Summers and Howard Darkin and Scott McIntosh to the right of Peter Wright. Keith Eccleston the Volunteer Co-ordinater for St Michaels is in the centre at the rear.
We took the scenic route through Bristol, the support van went one way, the support car went another and we found a third variation which meant we lost time in working out where we were and added several miles having unintentionally visited Avonmouth Docks. Even so we arrived at Saul Junction in time to join in with a raft regatta arranged by six local Rotary Clubs before swapping the bikes for kayaks and paddling the 7 or 8 miles into Gloucester Docks.
Our hosts in Gloucester were Paul and Jeanette Bates, Jeanette being a regional fundraiser for Leonard Cheshire Disability. That evening I was entertained with a lovely meal at a converted cinema.
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver - "It's great to see a photo of you en route - many thanks to the Rotary Club of Tavistock. What a great collective effort. Love from your big sister. xxx"
5th June 2009
Three of us stayed overnight in two houses with John & Judy and Trevor & Liz. They turned out again in the morning to see us off. The fellowship and friendship has been absolutely great and people are really going that extra mile.
The start of the route was particularly strenuous, climbing up steeply onto Dartmoor but the rewards of the view and general environment were well worth the effort. We arrived at Taunton early and cycled on close to Bridgewater before returning to Taunton to meet the President of the Rotary Club of Taunton, Peter Renshaw. Again we received a wonderful welcome.
We stayed in Taunton and had a very warm Polish welcome from Jacob and his wife.
MESSAGE from Stella Fairbairn - "Well done, Andrew. We are following your progress via the blog every day. Love, Mum and Dad".
MESSAGE from Malcolm Boddington, DG District 1090 - "Unfortunately I will be at RIBI for a General Council meeting so will be unable to be with you when you arrive in Banbury. Please accept my best wishes. Malcolm."
MESSAGE from Bob & Joan Nurden - "Andrew well done on your progress so far, keep it up and we both wish you all success on your trip. Keep well and take care. Love Bob & Joan xxxx (from me not him)".
MESSAGE from Ron Barnett, The Rotary Club of Banbury - "One or two of our keener members cleared out the Club cupboard this morning and much to everyone's surpise found a bottle of whisky hidden at the bottom, which we raffled at our lunchtime meeting and raised £84.00 for your challenge. Keep up the great work."
MESSAGE from Richard Watts - "President Richard of the Rotary Club of Banbury sends greetings and thanks to President Wally Lake and members of the Rotary Club of Tavistock for their support in Andrew's Challenge. Much appreciated by all."
MESSAGE from Jeanette Bates - "Hi Andrew, A fantastic start to an epic challenge event. I look forward to seeing you in Gloucester on Saturday evening."
MESSAGE from Francois Gallais - "What a wonderful start to your amazing challenge Andrew - well done and thank you for all your efforts and support. Thanks too to all other people involved in making the Fairbairn Challenge such an exciting project. I look forward to seeing you in Banbury on Sunday."
MESSAGE from John Morton, The Rotary Club of Tavistock - "The Rotary Club of Tavistock can confirm he has set off safely from here, achieved the first hard climb of the day onto the western edge of Dartmoor. Attached a photo with the support gang for the pervious day/night and two of your club joining today, and one just Andrew, but not needing to cycle to the Casualty Department in Plymouth"
MESSAGE from Joanne Higgs - "Well done Andrew keep going, all us girls are thinking of you and will miss you at lunchtime. Jo, Nikki, Grace, Pam, and Carol. Keep up the good work xxxxxx".
MESSAGE from Janet Bishop - "Delighted to hear that you have made such a good start Andrew, do hope that the winds are more favourable for your trip today ( I see that I am up rather later than normal!) Will follow your blog and progress with interest and wish you the very best of luck and good fortune througout the next few weeks. Kind regards Janet and David".
4th June 2009
Left with John and Liz before 7.00am and cycled to Lands End. John is something of an expert in photography and was carrying this heavy and expensive piece of equipment which I would not have entrusted to myself on a bike. After the customary photographs I started the cycling at about 7.30am
First day cycling - first puncture.
I called in at St. Teresa's Leonard Cheshire Disability Home in Penzance. Apparently it was the first purpose built home in the country and the residents benefit from looking out over the bay and towards St. Michael's Mount.
A hard day's cycling into an easterly wind but we finally arrived in Tavestock at 6.00pm.
3rd June 2009
A day for sorting out logistics. Getting the van from Fowey to Penzance and gear off the boat which arrived back in Fowey at 3.00am. Staying with John and Liz Prady at Porthcurno
Over breakfast we reviewed the previous day's trip and I happened to mention that we met a fishing vessel out of Newlyn half way across between the Isles of Scilly and Lands End. The weather forecast from the MET Office had predicted winds increasing but the fishermen said that according to sea weed they didn't think that would happen. I though that this was quite an interesting point that fishermen were predicting the weather conditions based on ideas probably centuries old. Michael explained that sea weed is a web site for surfers.
In the evening we went to the Minack Theatre which is situated on the side of the sea cliff and you look down onto the stage the backdrop being the sea. Whilst the show was only reasonable the experience was fascinating.
Despite being only a small village, Porthcurno also has another claim to fame being the site where the first trans-Atlantic cable come up into the UK.
MESSAGE from Maurice O'Conner - "Andrew, it is really good to see you have arrived safely at Land's End and managed to miss the floating Lighthouse. Best wishes for the cycling part and I hope to see you in Banbury. Maurice".
MESSAGE from mother - "Congratulations on your kayak journey. I was afraid that the sea conditions would not have been calm enough for you to cross in time to get on with your programme in England. The weather forecast says that the temperature is now dropping, which should be helpful to you when cycling - you won't get unbearably hot, I hope. Your car is in our drive, so we imagine that Robert is home again. We are looking forward to seeing you on Sunday at the Cheshire Home. Good luck with this next stage of your marathon journey. Love, Mum and Dad xxx".
2nd June 2009
Left St. Mary's at 8.00am and paddled to Sennen Cove (Lands End). Arrived at 5.00pm.
About half way across approaching the traffic separation zone, we could see a large red vessel approaching from the north. Michael and I were concerned that it seemed to be moving very slowly and we weren't sure about its intentions until Michael realised it was the Seven Stones Lighthouse (which is a ship).
The wildlife on the Isles of Scilly was varied and interesting but the two highlights were on the crossing over to the mainland. We were joined by a seal that swam between the two kayaks for about 45 minutes as though it was checking we were okay. Closer to Lands End I paddled over two huge basking sharks and the second one was so close to the surface I initially thought its fin was going to touch the kayak.
MESSAGE from Ian Rodrick - "Andrew completed the first leg of his marathon from the Scillies today and in safe on "terra firma". He has a day off tomorrow before setting off on his bicycle."
MESSAGE from Richard Watts - "Well done Andrew, a brilliant start. Enjoy the rest day. Richard"
1st June 2009
Paddled out to Bishop's Rock lighthouse. Arrived at 1.00pm. The Challenge commences.
MESSAGE from Sandra Oliver - "This is an amazing adventure. We're all following your progress with huge admiration. Looking forward to seeing you in Banbury. Love from your big sister. xxx"
31st May 2009
Up at 4.00am. Cruising light not working. Rigged boatswain's chair and went up the mast to replace bulb. Left at 5.00am and arrived at St. Mary's on Isle of Scilly at 9.10pm
30th May 2009
Stuck in Fowey Harbour due to strong winds. Frustrating!
28th May 2009
I have not updated the blog for the last few weeks as they have passed by in a blur of activity. It is hard to accept that tomorrow morning I will say good bye to my family before I go off to work. If everything goes according to plan, I will see them again on Sunday 7th June as I pass through Banbury and then we have arranged an evening together in Leamington Spa before I move on towards the Pennines. Obviously we will talk regularly in the meantime by phone but it won’t seem quite the same as being at home. Marilyn and I have booked a holiday in Cyprus in August with the girls, Erica and Rebecca. The pleasant anticipation will be something tangible to hold onto in the coming weeks. Friday is Rotary lunch and then I will drive to Cornwall ready to sail over to the Isles of Scilly. Where has the time gone?
This evening I was at a Rotary Council meeting going through final details. I have collected the support van, loaded it and prepared a file for each of the support drivers to refer to – route, insurance, contact details etc.
Last night was my final night of training at the reservoir. It went well and I tried out the kayak clothing that has been supplied to me at a heavily discounted price by Reed Chill Cheater. It all fitted well and felt comfortable. Whilst Michael helped take a course for beginners, I loosened up by paddling 10 lengths. Subsequently, we practised eskimo rolls and rescues with one and both of us in the water. The one slight drawback was that the comfort zip for the leggings did not want to come loose and I did not want to force it. It probably just needs a bit of encouragement. However, it is something I will need to attend to as crossing my legs from the Isles of Scilly through to Sennen Cove is not exactly an attractive proposition.
At present, whilst there are still a myriad of details to consider, remember, arrange and implement, my main concern is one over which I have no control – whether the high pressure system that arrived this week will be long enough to create and sustain conditions suitable to kayak from the Isles of Scilly. Rather than dwell on that which I cannot influence, I prefer to reflect upon an interesting few weeks.
There are numerous tales to tell over the last few weeks of training, organisation, meetings, presentations, things that have gone right, others which have misfired but which have frequently been characterised by a humorous aspect. Some examples include:
1. Taking the wrong route from the centre of Stow-on-the-Wold. Such are the navigational skills of the incumbent President of the Rotary Club of Banbury faced with the type of subtle map reading decisions necessary when having to rely on road signs rather than a map and compass. Much of my training has been on my own, save for the latter stages of the kayaking, so a days cycling to this iconic town in the Cotswolds and back on my own separated by a walk with Richard Watts and Philip Fine around the surrounding countryside was a pleasant interlude;
2. Walking twelve miles after getting a puncture and not having a repair kit. Such is the occasional complacency of yours truly which, if applied in other circumstances, could result in more serious consequences. It is not always a bad thing to learn from a wake up call and it was about time that I invested some time in training for the walking elements of the challenge;
3. One Saturday evening, Marilyn mentioned that she was having difficulty planting a small shrub that we had been given due to a rock. Could I dig it out? An hour and a half later, there was a large pile of building rubble excavated by hand and fork adjacent to a turned over flower bed. Two prongs of the fork were sticking out at obscure angles to their original direction. On the Sunday, Michael and I had paddled over to the Isle of Wight when I noticed that my hands were stinging. Looking down, I could see blood streaming down into the salt water. Gardening, paddling and salt water make unhappy bedfellows. My hands were still recovering two weeks later as my parents bought me a pair of gardening gloves for my birthday, commenting that it might be shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted but there may be another horse;
4. Landing uninvited on Brownsea Island (owned by the National Trust) in Poole Harbour as gale force winds induced us to find shelter in a hurry. Though penniless with all our money in Michael’s car, hitching a free lift on the ferry, kayaks and all. We seem to be making a habit of unintentionally avoiding landing fees, having previously done the same on Flat Holm in the Bristol Channel. Incidentally, the wildlife on the islands in this area is wonderful to view from the water. We were fortunate to see deer that seemed unperturbed by our presence as we glided up close to the bank. Michael thought this might not be the case later in the year as more people on the water may make the deer more wary; and
5. My kayak rapidly disappearing downstairs at The President’s and Joint Service Clubs’ Ball, carried by Round Tablers, clearly a ‘prank addictive’ (and likeable) species. I’m still not sure what they had planned, perhaps launching it on the canal, but I had to prematurely conclude the last dance with Marilyn as I was warned of the situation. Fortunately, all they did was to save me the effort of getting the craft back to my car.
On a more serious note, I owe a great deal of thanks to so many people who have got together to make this challenge possible. Had I realised at the outset the support and back-up that would be involved, I don’t think I would have embarked upon it. It just shows what recipe a good cause, a little imagination, friends and people you don’t even know beforehand can deliver. Thanks to them, this is the end of the hors d’oeuvres and the main meal is about to begin.
What about the sponsorship? Well it is now up to £5,825, representing 23.3% of the £25,000 target. There are still collections in the towns en route and hopefully funds to be raised through more presentations after the challenge has been completed. In addition the Club has raised funds for unavoidable expenses, the balance of which will be added to the sponsorship total. There is still a long way to go but it is an encouraging beginning. Already I have five presentations booked post completion of the challenge and all being well that list will continue to grow.
My final thoughts. As the start date has got closer and closer, more and more people have asked if I am nervous. For the most part I have referred to the issue of the weather conditions and sea state necessary for the sea crossing from Isles of Scilly – factors outside my control. Thankfully, the forecast for 1st June is for winds down to 11mph from 20mph. Fingers crossed that that trend continues.
My main thought, though, is that I should not let people down – my family, supporters from LCD, Rotary, friends and many others who I have never met (but hopefully will) but especially for the children in Uganda that the School 4 All in Africa Project is aimed at. Have I done enough in terms of preparation? Physically and mentally will I be up to it? Do others think the same on the eve of a challenge or is it a case of just getting on with it? In any event, although fund raising has started well, I am nervous that the £25,000 target remains very much in the distance. I thought up this challenge as I hoped that by capturing people’s imagination, that it would generate substantial funds for a group of children (and their families and community) very much in need. I hope that I was right.
13th April 2009
Somewhat belatedly the weather front has arrived, the sun and clear sky replaced by a strengthening wind coming up the estuary from the south. Ron has other duties to attend to in order that the mast can be hoisted into place tomorrow. Michael takes the view, which I do not disagree with, that we should limit ourselves to practising in the harbour mouth rather than submit ourselves to worsening conditions in the open sea.
There is a small sandy cove close to the harbour entrance on the western side. Readymoney beach is a popular location usually restricted to bathers. Today, there is no-one taking the plunge and we take the opportunity to paddle into the relative calm of this small bay protected from the wind by the headland prior to deciding on our next move. This constitutes ferry gliding across the harbour entrance in a five foot swell. When we are both in troughs separated by the waves, we lose sight of each other. It is an interesting manoeuvre with the wind in our faces diametrically opposite to the outgoing tide. With the waves suddenly restricted by the narrow opening of the harbour entrance, the wave pattern is irregular and is not entirely predictable. Nevertheless, we reach a small area protected by the eastern headland from the waves featuring a white cross marking the demise of a shop ravaged in a storm and beaten into submission by the rocks. An interesting thought, not exactly designed to generate confidence.
The return trip is more awkward. The wind is now aft of the beam and has sudden and unexpected affects on the rear of the kayak as it is exposed to the wind at the top of each wave. One such gust turns my kayak so that its direction is now travelling across the side of the face of the wave in contrast to straight down it. I overbalance and am unable to prevent taking a dip. Upside down, I concentrate on moving myself forward into position to roll back up. For some reason I struggle to break the surface of the water with my paddle before sweeping it back as I have practised frequently in the swimming pool. This is disconcerting and I cannot think why there should be a problem. It results in insufficient leverage to get myself back topside and I reluctantly and disappointingly take the decision to pull the spray deck cover off and get out of the kayak.
The next twenty minutes are an invaluable learning experience for both of us.
Michael’s first attempt to right the situation involves me getting back into a kayak full of water. We have a pump but in five foot waves, as fast as the water is pumped out, the kayak is filled again. Giving up this unequal contest, I strap the spray deck back onto the cockpit and our kayaks part company. Paddling a kayak laden with water takes some getting used to in a swimming pool. In these conditions, without any previous experience, it is akin to balancing on a heavily deflated narrow lilo. Once the craft begins to impractical.
It proves to be a case of third time lucky, but this is a result of Michael’s skill rather than any luck. We are getting a mite close to the rocks but he is able to pull my kayak across his, turn it over and raise it in the air to empty out the water. Not a straightforward exercise in these conditions. Again I get back into the kayak but this time without feeling I am getting into a bath. As we separate once more, this time I can paddle into the waves in a stable situation.
Afterwards, we reflect upon our involuntary capsize drill and discuss the different alternatives available to us, not just those that we had tried. This is critical as we would not wish a repeat to take so long to rectify. Although in the water for about twenty minutes, we were practising within a relatively controlled situation and when I was finally back in a stable craft, we were probably only about fifty metres from where I originally capsized. If the situation had been in a six knot tide between the Scottish mainland and the Orkneys, we could have ended up two miles off course and unable to make our destination. We know that we will need to work on this such that we have confidence in each other’s knowledge and ability to operate as an effective team.
12th April 2009
The coastguard has informed us of an impending weather front estimated to arrive from the west around late afternoon. However, we should be out of our kayaks by then. Our route takes us from the landing stage next to the Bodinnick Ferry on the Fowey side of the river, out through the harbour mouth to Gribbin Head (avoiding the rocks to the north of the Cannis Rock Cardinal Point) and then across St Austell Bay to Black Head. At that point we turn south along the coast and paddle past Mevagissey and land at Colona Beach immediately to the south of Chapel Point.
Michael’s kayak is not dissimilar to a magician’s box out of which he fetches more and more equipment, defying the rules of physics. Like Dr Who’s TARDIS, there appears to be more space inside than seems possible from a cursory external examination. When he elicits a stove, kettle and begins a brew up, any complaints regarding the weight of the kayak are forgotten.
Ron has struggled to keep with the planned pace as his kayak is broader and shorter than those Michael and I are using. Although this provides Ron with greater stability, it severely hampers his speed. Accordingly, up to this break in the proceedings, he has simply paddled at a slower but consistent pace. He suggests that he should travel back direct across the bay rather than joining Michael and I whilst we explore the Gwinges Rock further to the south. We can then all meet up somewhere on the way back to Fowey. There is hardly any swell, the visibility is clear and the plan seems to be reasonable.
As we all leave Colona Beach, a seal swims around us. Michael and I see two more at Gwinges Rock, one sunning itself and the other seemingly keeping an eye on a nearby fishing boat. We wonder whether the former is pregnant and resting whilst the latter is acting in a protective role. After a while we turn north eastwards and start back across the bay. Although Ron should have had a reasonable headstart, we anticipate his kayak coming into view fairly early on. Time marches on, we take a break to have a drink and an energy bar without any sighting. Approaching the Gribbin again, we begin to look backwards as well, mulling over the possibility that we have already overtaken him coming along the longest leg of the triangle. Notwithstanding the pleasant conditions, the thought crosses our minds that maybe it wasn’t such a good idea to split up. The sea can provide wonderful experiences but should always be respected. There is little we can do but carry on in the hope that either he is ahead, and has gone faster than we anticipated, or that he has decided to go ashore elsewhere. It is with a sense of relief that his paddle comes into view as we come up between the headland and the Cannis Buoy. By now, the effort in paddling the broader and shorter craft twenty miles with minimal recent training has taken its toll. We return into the harbour mouth at a snail’s pace but satisfied with the day’s outcome. Averaging about four miles an hour, the speed is improving which is an important consideration.
We all sleep well on the boat, the physical exertion of the day ensuring as near a peaceful night’s rest as possible, broken only by the intermittent loud snoring from Ron’s cabin in the bow.
11th April 2009
Up early, I leave for Cornwall before 07.00 hours with my kayak on the roof. Cinnabar of Exe is due to be put back in the water tomorrow. I meet up with Ron at the boatyard before lunch. The weather has improved and, for once, is sunny and warm – ostensibly a rarity for my excursions to this county. We spend part of the day working on the yacht, redecorating parts of the deck, returning the anchor to the bow section and a number of other minor odd jobs.
Michael comes down in the evening to Ron’s house and we plan a kayak trip for the following day. The idea is that after the kayaking, Cinnabar will be launched just prior to evening High Tide, allowing us to sufficient depth of water to get down to the deep water mooring. We will then stay on board overnight and kayak again on Monday. Ron will then need to remain on the yacht for another night whilst Michael and I drive back to Banbury. It seems that it takes as long to work out the logistics of whose car will go where with what equipment and at what time to facilitate this movement of people and craft as it does to plan the details of the proposed kayak trip.
10th April 2009
It is Easter Weekend and back to training away from the family. I anticipate that for the last time I add to the length of the cycling circuit. The day starts out wet and as each hour wears on I imagine the weather is improving. 84 miles later as I put the bicycle back in the garage, I am somewhat damp and still imagining the sun breaking through the clouds. No matter, training in less than ideal conditions is surely likely to replicate at least part of the test that I will face in June and, as such, is a valuable exercise.
5th April 2009
It is axiomatic that preparing for a challenge of this nature requires a degree of selfishness that is largely incompatible with family life. Whilst my family has been extremely supportive and understanding, I am conscious of how often I go AWOL cycling or kayaking leaving them to fend for themselves. So it is a real pleasure to take a break from training and be out for the day with Marilyn, Erica and Rebecca. The reason we are in Poole on the south coast is not because it is a seaside resort on a sunny day, but dates back to tortoise sitting for friends of ours who were building a house in Crete. Having now moved there, they have been told the tortoises cannot go with them. Hence we have first option on four additional pets. Not surprisingly perhaps, there is unanimous agreement on the female side of the family that we should accept the offer. Bearing in mind those odds, argument is fruitless and merely delaying the inevitable. We are collecting our new housemates to be.
During the day we wander along the beach at Sandbanks. Though early in the year, the sunshine has attracted many visitors to the beach, a handful of whom who have bravely taken the plunge into the still cold waters of Poole Bay. The sunshine, though pleasant, will have done little as yet to temper the affect that winter has had on the sea temperature. It looks more enjoyable out on the yachts where the gentle sea breeze pushes them steadily along the coast.
It is also a day of reminiscing as I stand outside my mother’s parents’ house in Lilliput. I remember going there as a child together with my sister. My grandparents are long since departed and must have moved from there over 40 years ago, but some of my memories remain vivid. Everything was simple and straightforward in those days, or so it seemed to me. Funny how you realise when you grow up how cocooned and protected you can be as a child.
Yesterday I was out cycling again, extending my circuit through the villages around Banbury. At about 70 miles I was very close to home and it was very tempting to finish at that point. Instead, I reasoned that it would help if I went on to 80 miles, close to my planned daily average of 85 miles on the actual challenge. I ploughed on and was pleased that I did. Somehow this little extra has increased my confidence out of all proportion to the additional physical exertion required. I realise that I have straddled a mental hurdle and moved a significant step forward.
29th March 2009
It has been an eventful week.
On Thursday I was interviewed by students of Banbury School, an institution that I left in 1975 before many of the current crop of teachers were born. Students and teachers were friendly and interested. On the same day, the Banbury Guardian included an article on the challenge and other recent press releases have been in the Banbury Cake and the Telegraph & Argus (Bradford).
Michael and I drove to an exhibition at the National Water Sports Centre at Nottingham on Saturday. Aside from window shopping (there is a vast array of equipment), we heard some useful presentations on safety (by the RNLI) and a planned, and partially completed, kayaking trip to the Faroes by Patrick Winterton. The section from North Rhona to the Faroes is expected to involve two, if not three, nights at sea and makes our proposed day trips seem very tame in comparison. Patrick very kindly agreed to talk to us afterwards as he has previously kayaked to the Shetlands and he was able to provide us with some valuable first hand nuggets of information.
Yesterday was cold and wet as we walked around the exhibition, today is completely different – warm and sunny. Shortly after 9am we are at Penarth on the coast of South Wales overlooking the sea tucking into sausage and egg sandwiches loading the calories for a day’s kayaking. It is a question of the Bristol Channel Revisited and I am hoping that I will manage a bit more time on the water than during my previous visit last year when I set out from the opposite shore close to Weston-Super-Mare.
After paddling over to take a close up view of the Cardiff barrier at work, we cross over to, and land on, the island of Flat Holm. The island has quite a history, having been used as a base by Marconi to demonstrate the use of the radio. Whilst exploring we are approached by a group comprising staff and helpers looking after the nature reserve. Apparently it is a Welsh organisation and we are informed that there is a similar English outfit on the nearby Steep Holm. We notice the cannons, some of which are aimed at the other island. Apparently our nationality is not a problem, the welcome is friendly, even though we have to admit that we do not have requisite £4 landing fee. Typically English, we have a brew up before returning to the fray.
The Bristol Channel is akin to a funnel, with the waves from the Atlantic having travelled thousands of miles directed into an increasingly narrow waterway. As a consequence, the incoming tide is forced to higher than normal levels producing an exceptionally high tidal range and fast moving water. As we point back towards the coast of South Wales, the tide is going out whilst the south westerly wind is coming in from the opposite direction, beam on (at roughly 90°) to the kayaks. This results in a choppy sea with unnatural and irregular movements to contend with, albeit the wave height is not great. A further consequence of the tidal range is that when we land back at Penarth, we have a long walk across the beach whereas when we left the sea was close to the landing. A good day out.
21st March 2009
It is another early morning. I am up just before 4am to get ready to drive down to the Rotary District 1090 conference at Torquay to be on the LCD Stand to help promote both the School 4 All in Africa project and my own challenge. It is a useful time for reflection as I drive down.
Yesterday I was e-mailed a draft article to go in the next edition of Rotary Today. It included a photograph showing me standing next to a kayak on Hayling Island with the caption ... ‘We hope Andrew doesn’t get cold feet’. I was asked whether I wanted this to be changed. I’m not sure whether the double entendre was intended or if substituting wet for cold may have been more apt. Even if the former, I could hardly object given the ebbs and flows in my confidence so why should anyone else not have a degree of concern. I decided to let it lie.
As the sun rises, I recollect that it is the Spring Equinox and at the next quarterly solar event, the Summer Solstice, I should be more than half way from the Isles of Scilly to Shetland. I try to remember where but can only guess that it will be somewhere towards the north of mainland Scotland, assuming everything has gone to plan.
This is my third Rotary District conference with LCD, having previously been to Llandudno (1060 Devon) and Weston Super Mare (1170 West Midlands). I arrive in Torquay with time to enjoy a brief walk along the seafront before unloading my gear (a wall map pinned on a board showing the route and paperwork in my briefcase) and carrying it several hundred metres over to the Conference Centre. Luckily, today is not a repeat of the gusty day at Llandudno where I struggled to stop the map blowing away in the strong wind with onlookers no doubt amused at my antics.
I benefit from a warm welcome from the Assistant District Governor who recognises me from the talk that I gave at the Rotary Club of Reading Abbey. Clearly using the props rather than a PowerPoint facility makes for an unforgettable impression. Soon afterwards I decide that I will see if I can get hold of the Full Monty trousers to add to the effect for the next time that I give the presentation. I may not be the world’s best speaker, but if I can make people remember, then that is good enough for me.
During the day I am able to make some valuable contacts with people who ask about the challenge. As an example, Joan Thomson, wife of the National President (Ian) and a Rotarian herself, comes over to have a chat. They are clearly having an exceedingly busy year and I really appreciate, and am pleasantly surprised by, the time she has to discuss her interest. Notwithstanding the many demands she must have on her time, she exhibits no signs of impatience. It is a real talent to be able to be under so much pressure yet appear to be so unhurried.
Word seems to be getting around from the press coverage and the letters to Rotary Clubs. A number of people comment...‘oh so you are the person I’ve heard about who is...’
In one of the conference periods I sneak in to listen to a presenter who has been recommended. He is highly entertaining and effective in putting across his message. It is interesting to watch and learn about different styles. I file away the information for future reference.
It is about 9 pm now and I am back at home. Although it isn’t late, I will be up cycling early in the morning before seeing my sister (Sandra) and niece (Amy) who are coming up to prepare lunch for my mother (it will be Mothering Sunday). Hence, I am retiring to bed leaving the rest of the household glued to a DVD about Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.
15th March 2009
It is a pleasant day and the forecast is promising. Spring is in the air and I am planning to try out a road bike which has been lent to me by Rotarian Stephen Jakeman. However, the preparations have not been ideal as yesterday evening I was at a Banbury Operatic Society (BOS) Dinner & Dance together with Marilyn, one of my sons (Mark) and his girlfriend (Lauren). Marilyn is the Social Chairman so has been heavily involved in the preparation. It went well but by the time it had finished, we had dropped Mark and Lauren at her parents’ house and then returned for an enjoyable night cap (strictly non-alcoholic) and review at Richard (President of the Rotary Club of Banbury) and Sally’s (Chairman of Banbury Operatic Society) house, it was after 2am before I got into bed. Theoretically I could afford the time to have a lie in but I find it difficult to sleep past sun rise. Consequently, I was up at the crack of dawn (well at 7am almost).
The cycling has gone well though I was not sure that I was going to complete the 65 mile route (not having gone anywhere near as far since Summer 2008). Anyway, I have which is promising and I will now need to lengthen the route to reflect the longer distances that I have planned in June (average 85 miles and up to 97). Saddle soreness was evident again but not as bad as previously.
Speed is also probably an issue which I will need to address. An abundance of cyclists were out and about, all of whom overtook me with considerable ease (indeed one slowed down to check that I was okay), the only exception being a women and her small child. I am clearly not designed for speed. Another difficulty I encountered was with replenishing reserves and this warrants some research into nutrition.
6th – 8th March 2009
I travel down to Fowey after Friday’s Rotary meeting and having collected my twin girls, Erica and Rebecca, from school and dropped them off at home. It is normally a four hour drive without any stops as long as the traffic is reasonable. Other than being delayed by rush hour traffic as I approach Cleeve Hill in Gloucestershire near junction 11a of the M5, the drive is straightforward but takes a little longer as I have Ron’s kayak on the roof which I am returning to him so that he can get some training in.
We (Ron and I) are intending to undertake some maintenance on the yacht (Cinnabar of Exe) that will carry us over (with the kayaks as well) to the Isles of Scilly and accompany us back to Sennen Cove. The yacht is a 26 foot Westerly Centaur dating back to the late 1970s. They are no longer manufactured but remain popular on the second hand market as a safe, leisurely design which will get you to where you want to go but not win any races. In contrast, they have a relatively broad beam providing more space and comfort to move around inside than many racing yachts and, at a push, will sleep five. Everything is relative, though, and Marilyn would describe the accommodation as spartan.
On the Saturday morning, we go to TLS Vehicle Rental, a company who have kindly agreed to a request from Leonard Cheshire Disabiliy to lend a van FOC for the event. The premises are closed on the Saturday morning (presumably it is for commercial rental only) but it is helpful to see the options through the compound fence and consider what space we will need for the equipment that will need to be transported around the country.
I have a reputation in Cornwall that my arrival is normally a reliable barometer for the onset of bad weather. True to form, it is a wet weekend - showers interspersed with rain and some fairly strong winds. Of course, this does not prevent routine maintenance continuing. For those not conversant with the concept of yacht maintenance, and even though my experience is that the pace of life in Cornwall is considerably slower than elsewhere, I have a suspicion that this is a social event following a general pattern that is fairly common countrywide.
Cinnabar is ashore at a farmer’s boatyard at about the uppermost limits of the navigable waters (save for rowing boats and the like) of the River Fowey. Indeed, the yacht can only be launched from there at certain high tides. As it is a bilge keeler, it is not necessarily a problem if it goes aground as it will rest on its twin keels. For those owners with fin keelers (a single keel), such an event would be the precursor to an uncomfortable night’s sleep with the craft lying on its side and subsequent embarrassing leg pulling with the tale becoming considerably embroidered over the years such that the story ends up totally unrecognisable from the original facts. The Westerly Centaur was designed with the thought that its bilge keels would enable it to go virtually anywhere and for the owner not to be concerned if the tide left it high and dry. In this way, bearing in mind my limited navigational skills, it is ideal for me.
The farmyard is littered with yachts of all shapes and sizes, so close together and at all sorts of angles that it is difficult to imagine how anyone will ever get out again. However, that is a problem for another day. Soon after arriving at the yard, we are joined by Jan, a friendly and jovial character who I have met before on a number of occasions as he seems to spend most weekends with the interior of his yacht littered with tools, the engine compartment open and a number of unfinished jobs on the go. He never tidies up as this would reduce the time he has for the task in hand but, rather, leaves this to his good lady (also named Jan). Whether male chauvinism remains rife in Cornwall or this is merely a case of the most efficient use of scarce resources is a mute point. Male Jan is need of some nuts and bolts and Ron is able to find the right amount and size from a box containing a myriad of such items, some of which probably haven’t seen the light of day for many a year. The yachting community tend to be hoarders and resist throwing anything away.
Male Jan returns to his labour of love and it is time to put on the kettle. It is a chilly morning so black coffee with a whisky additive is the order of the day. We review the plan of action decided upon the previous evening and discuss the changes since my last visit. These include plant that will be important for the trip to and from the Isles of Scilly in late May, early June. This will be Ron’s 29th visit to the islands so it is fair to say that he has a reasonable fund of local knowledge. A radar has been fixed to the mast and there are new navigation lights. I have also brought a radar reflector along so that other craft with radar can fix our location. These are all practical improvements but then Ron refers to aesthetics - the interior cabin ceiling covering is looking tired and shabby. Jan, he says, has replaced his with tongue and groove boarding which apparently looks very impressive. I have actually seen this before but don’t like to interrupt Ron who is now in full swing, enthusing about replicating this project in Cinnabar. Besides, I am intrigued to see how far Jan has progressed. There is nothing for it, we must go and check.
On board Jan’s yacht, we inspect the ceiling finish. It certainly is still impressive. After extolling the virtues of the project and discussing where the materials can be sourced at a reasonable price, it is time for another drink. Female Jan does the honours and we chew the cud for another half hour or so. We are then honoured with the proud demonstration of a central heating system. As this requires the engine to be switched on, the cabin soon becomes somewhat overcrowded as others suddenly appear from all corners of the boatyard, clearly aware what the noise means and that this represents an opportunity to get warm. We decide that it is perhaps an appropriate time to leave.
The upshot of the above is that although we had breakfast at 07.00 hours, it is past midday before we start any maintenance. Such is the life of pottering about on boats. Nevertheless, despite the weather and complying with the social etiquette of the boatyard, we surprisingly achieve a significant amount of work.
During the weekend we also trawl through the 2009 edition of Reed’s Nautical Almanac, checking tidal flows, noting rocks and other hazards to watch out for both off Lands End and around the Orkneys and the Shetland Islands and discuss training, strategy and other equipment we may need (GPS, radios etc). It is a useful and constructive time and very enjoyable. It is also interesting to hear about Ron’s sponsored cycle ride from St Austell to Lavenham (Suffolk) in which he cycled around 140 miles in a day. At a daily average of 85 miles, I am being somewhat less ambitious.
4th March 2009
Eskimo rolls may not always be successful especially as capsizes are most likely to occur in rough conditions when rolling is likely to be most difficult. There are other ways of getting back into the kayak after capsizing. I practise one of these which would be relevant if I was on my own. That is pulling myself up onto the back of the kayak and crawling along it with my bodyweight as low as possible, to help prevent the kayak turning over, until I am able to drop into the seat and then bring my legs in. I am successful in a training kayak. As with the Eskimo Roll, I will now need to succeed with the sea kayak.
2nd March 2009
The second meeting with LCD and I am relieved to be able to report significant progress in terms of a variety of matters - arranging accommodation, training, securing a touring bike (kindly offered by Rotarian Stephen Jakeman with a support bicycle provided by President Richard Watts), obtaining street collection licences and breaking through the £2,000 sponsorship barrier.
It is a relief not to have let these people from LCD down as they continue to provide enthusiastic and significant support. There is no room for complacency, though, if £5,000 is to be achieved by the end of April and that is only a stepping stone to the final sum of £25,000.
I am able to advise that Rotarian Maurice Humphris, who is a retired undertaker and a typical gentleman of the old school (a handshake is as good as a contract), is dealing with the logistics for the team driving the support vehicle and transporting equipment and people around the country. Both Francois and Maurice O’Connor know him well and for some reason the reference to his former occupation in connection with the challenge is a source of amusement to those present. Black humour indeed, although I am used to this from my climbing days. I conjure up an image of sleeping overnight in a lay bye in the back of a hearse and appearing out of a coffin woken by a policeman knocking on the window. Or is it that the proximity of the vehicle would be useful in the event that events don’t go quite according to plan?
In addition to those present at the 2nd February meeting, I meet Catherine Goodier for the first time and Rotarian Ian Valentine comes along from the Rotary District 1090 Communications Committee to lend a hand. The suggestions are fast and furious and about 2 hours and 20 minutes later, Richard and I emerge with a feeling that we do indeed have a brilliant and friendly support team.
1st March 2009
It is my fourth son’s eighteenth birthday. Last night was a surprise party, thumping modern music drumming out any thoughts of conversation with teenagers jumping up and down ostensibly representing some form of dance.
Conditions have not been good for cycling for some time, but today is an opportunity and I reacquaint myself with the village lanes around the town. I am interrupted en route and have to divert through to the office.
The evening is more sedate, a quiet celebratory meal out with family and close friends. I get into conversation with my mother. Apparently she had a dream last night of raging waves in which I drowned. For the umpteenth time I explain that there is careful planning, we won’t go out if conditions are not reasonable and if I don’t come back, then at least the mortgage will be paid off. She says that she will kill me if I don’t come back. As she is a reverend, I’m unsure as to how this fits in with her teachings.
February 2009
An article follows in the Oxford Times which is picked up by other press organisations. The same article appears in the Banbury Cake and I am contacted by the Banbury Guardian with whom I have a photo shoot and then have interviews with BBC Radio Isles of Scilly and BBC Radio Shetland. Catherine has done her work well.
25th February 2009
I successfully roll the sea kayak. It is a great feeling. Michael then suggests that I should try to come up on the left hand side as I have only learnt to surface on my right (as facing upwards under the water) to date. I fail miserably, being totally disorientated. But no matter, I can still practise and it is unlikely at sea that I will have to attempt to right the kayak other than on my preferred side (my English teacher wouldn’t like that, starting a sentence with but. Miss Wilkes, I remember her well).
18th February 2009
I have not failed to Eskimo Roll for three weeks on Wednesday evenings, on each occasion that I have capsized I have returned to the surface under my own steam and still seated in the training kayak. It is time to try the sea kayak.
17th February 2009
I receive a warm welcome from the Rotary Club of Banbury Cherwell and they receive my somewhat unusual (in parts) presentation. Again, it seems to go down well.
15th February 2009
Michael and I travel down to Southsea and meet Meridian ITV at the entrance to Longstone Harbour. This has been arranged by Catherine Goodier of LCD who has been prolific in preparing press releases, no doubt patiently and sometimes exasperatingly having to contend with my lack of experience, but always full of encouragement. We are interviewed and appear on the local news at 15.45 hours. The item does justice to the School 4 All in Africa project. There is only one take which surprises friends. However, Meridian has cleverly cut parts where I have stuttered. No doubt the out takes would provide plenty of amusement.
We paddle clockwise around Hayling Island (circa 15 miles), going inland over water initially as flat as a mill pond. There is a yacht club on the other side of the island where we stop for a cup of coffee before experiencing the more interesting exit from Chichester Harbour and entrance again into Longstone Harbour, completing the loop. This time I use wind and waterproof mittens that wrap around the paddle and are attached with Velcro. They are open ended so if my hands go in the water they do get wet. However, I have direct contact with the paddle which gives me the control that I want. Surprisingly, the mittens keep my hands warm and at times I take them out to cool them down. I can easily continue paddling as I can slide the mittens along the paddle. A problem resolved.
12th February 2009
My second presentation is at the Rotary Club of Reading Abbey. I use my amended approach, involving a number of props including a diver’s neoprene hat and a Full Monty outfit. I feel much more comfortable with this style although I can imagine that any reader would wonder at the relevance of the Full Monty outfit. An invite for me to present and I will happily explain their role.
4th February 2009
I successfully roll the training kayak 10 times without a failure. Progress indeed.
26th January 2009
I meet with Francois and Maurice together with their colleagues from LCD, Robin Haslam and Helen White. President Richard Watts and I represent Rotary. I had thought that this would be a reasonably short meeting but there is much to discuss and LCD clearly have plenty of experience in promoting sponsored events and have arrived with a lengthy but pertinent agenda. Subsequently I prepare a schedule setting out matters that have to be attended to and by when. Fundraising targets are established, the first being £2,000 by the time of the next meeting on 2nd March.
4th January 2009
At 06.00 hours, with the car indicating that the outside temperature is minus 6° Celsius, I ponder as to whether it is such a good idea to be going training outside and on water. The previous evening I used boiling water to unfreeze the door to the enclosure so that I could get the kayak ready. It invokes memories of times when if a car was left outside overnight during winter, the same technique had to be used. That seems many years ago. Putting a car in a garage now is such a quaint idea. Indeed, mine stores amateur dramatic equipment as my wife Marilyn treads the boards, garden furniture, items belonging to Rotary and all sorts of other gear, but certainly no cars.
Four of us arrive at Putney (Michael, Terry, his wife and I). There are plenty of rowers but no other kayakers. In trepidation I get my kit on, wondering what I have let myself in for. I don’t need to be concerned as once on the river paddling keeps me warm. Indeed, the only time I am cold during the day is seated outside a restaurant by Tower Bridge drinking coffee as we are waiting for the tide to turn. In all we cover around 20 miles (a satisfactory excursion) and see the centre of London from a totally different perspective. The River Police come by to investigate what we are up to but not until we have already passed the Houses of Parliament. Most other boats slow down to pass us by but the RNLI speed through generating a substantial wash. Perhaps they think we need the practise (they may be right) or are hoping they might get some. We arrive back, the temperature still low but we remain warm. I am conscious, though, that that would not have been the case had I capsized. Being able to Eskimo Roll has to be one of my priorities.
Bearing in mind my experiences at Weston Super Mare, I have borrowed and worn a set of neoprene divers’ gloves. Undoubtedly they keep my hands warm but they are too thick for me to keep proper control of my paddles. Back to the drawing board.
January 2009
The early days when members of Rotary Council were understandably sceptical of my proposal are long gone. I am now receiving plenty of encouragement and support from both club members and friends. There appears to be an expectation that I will complete this challenge, an apparent confidence in my ability to see through what I am planning. It is almost as though it is a foregone conclusion. This is as much a concern as when I was initially seeking to persuade people that it was viable. The power of the sea is not to be taken lightly or underestimated and averaging 85 miles per day is not slow progress on a bicycle (at least not for me). I must ensure that my training and preparation are compatible with the situations that I will have to endure.
Rotarian Nigel Randall approaches other clubs in all Rotary Districts to request accommodation en route.
Rotarian Paul Shea comes up with an idea for a President’s and Joint Service Clubs Ball to commemorate the 400th Charter of Banbury, the proceeds of which will be put towards the expenses of the challenge.
Winter 2008/09
I travel on my own down to Weston Super Mare planning to kayak out and around Steep Holm. Having studied the tides, I decide to leave shortly after high tide in order to avoid the apparently dangerous areas of mud that emerge when the tide is out and to benefit from having the tidal direction in my favour. Launching from a very shallow shelving beach with the tide going out turns out to be far from easy. Anyone watching must be amused by my almost total incompetence. Each time I get into the kayak and put on the spray deck, the tide moves out and I am left aground unable to move. It must take me at least five attempts before jumping into the kayak in some deeper water and following some vigorous and hefty heaving, I am finally able to start paddling. I have fingerless sailing gloves on, but even so by now my hands are frozen from the cold water and it is apparent that the gloves are of a material which will not dry quickly.
I am faced with a choice – carry on with my plan even though shivering already and possibly be out on the sea for eight or nine hours before the tide will be in my favour to get beyond the dangerous muddy sections, or make a bee line for the cliffs and find a way to get ashore. Furthermore, I do not have any local knowledge of this area of the sea. Not a difficult decision. I am only on the sea for about an hour and it takes me almost an hour to walk back to the car and return to collect the kayak which I have carried up the cliffs using steps that I had seen from the sea. A group of fisherman watch me as I struggle up the steps, at each 90° turn clumsily and with difficulty carrying the kayak up at a steep angle. There is no reaction and their faces are expressionless as if this is the usual method to land a kayak. I ask if they will watch over it whilst I go back for my car. There is a nod of acknowledgement but I am not convinced and they have disappeared by my return, probably recounting to their mates about some idiot from the Midlands who doesn’t seem to know if he wants to kayak or climb. It seems a long way to drive for such a brief period afloat. However, I learn something about beach launching, that I need to change my gloves and I find an appropriate place to launch if/when I return another time. Only one hour in the water, but important lessons.
Banbury Cherwell Canoe Club meets on Wednesday evenings throughout the winter at Sibford School where there is a swimming pool. I go for the first time not long before Xmas to learn to Eskimo Roll. At the first session, Michael says that I am almost there. As I explain to fellow Rotarians, I have the advantage of already being able to do half a roll. Even so, it takes me several weeks to get the hang of it.
25th November 2008
I drive up to Nottingham to meet Andy Whiting of Valley Canoe Products. I arrive with no proper roof rack, an acknowledged lack of experience, a grandfather to boot and planning sea crossings that might stretch those much fitter than I. Nevertheless, he doesn’t bat an eyelid and helps me to tie the kayak down. The fixings are not ideal and I wonder whether he is having second thoughts. If he is, he keeps them to himself. I promise to keep in contact and send him photographs of the training. On arriving home in one piece, I e-mail Andy to confirm the same. His reply confirms that he did wonder whether I would have problems transporting the kayak attached just to the roof.
24th November 2008
I give my first presentation on School 4 All in Africa and the event I am proposing in aid of the charity. The location is the Rotary Club of Coalville, a village not far from where I used to climb in quarries as a teenager. This gives me an obvious introductory tale involving a scuba diver which helps to give the presentation an amusing start. At least it seems to be received well. Readers will have to hear the presentation to be enlightened as to the antics of the scuba diver. Rotarian Alan Wolstencroft drives up with me to ensure that the technical equipment works. It does, but subsequently I decide that I can come up with a more effective and novel approach by using props. I put my thinking cap on and gradually ideas come to the fore.
August - September - October 2008
I spend weekends renewing my acquaintance with cycling, a pastime I have not taken seriously for over thirty years. Starting from a modest and insignificant 13 miles, in a matter of weekends I have followed a circuit around the villages of Banbury extending to 66 miles which I can cover with reasonable ease, save for the discomfort of the saddle, with no aching muscles the following day. The saddle is not an insignificant issue, one which I will have to solve if I am to enjoy the challenge. Constructive suggestions will be welcomed with open arms.
Having borrowed a sea kayak from Ron, I travel down to the south coast and launch myself into the sea close to the mouth of the Beaulieu River and paddle over to the Isle of Wight, spending a few hours sampling the delights of the wonderful scenery. It is a glorious day and there are plenty of leisure yachts about. I enjoy chatting with a family on the beach on the Isle of Wight and a yachtsman who appears a mite surprised to encounter a lone kayaker in the middle of the Solent and enquiring as to my destination. The conditions are favourable but clearly I must learn to Eskimo Roll. Surprisingly for a craft with such a shallow draught, I almost go aground on my return around 100 metres off land.
Michael arranges a trip to a stretch of the River Thames near Abingdon. The flow is strong from the weir and we play about in the rough water at its base. I haven’t done this for years and feel more at home in Ron’s kayak. However, Michael and his friend, Terry, suggest that I should consider getting a longer and narrower kayak as this will help in terms of speed, a factor that will be important in crossings between the Isles of Scilly and Lands End and from John O’Groats over to the Orkneys, North Ronaldsay, Fair Isle and Shetland. They give me some contacts. The following weekend I write to a number of manufacturers asking for a kayak FOC for the charitable event. On the Monday, I receive a very generous offer of a Nordkapp kayak to use for both training and the event itself. Michael confirms that this would be much better.
11th July 2008
Together with Rotarian Richard Watts, President of the Rotary Club of Banbury (2008/9), I spend 13½ hours on the Aonach Eagach (we had anticipated around 8), a magnificent ridge on the east side of Glencoe, an area steeped in history overlooking the site where 38 of the MacDonald clan were massacred in 1692. We arrive at the Clachaig Inn in near darkness at 11 pm, the traditional watering hole at the end of the walk, to find our wives sampling local ale and chatting happily with other climbers/walkers, not a mite concerned about us being 5½ hours overdue. Either they have supreme confidence in our abilities or have checked the insurance policies already.
17th Jume 2008
Martin Phillips, the President of the Rotary Club of Banbury (2007/8), has been persuaded by Annie, his wife, to walk the West Highland Way for charity accompanied by various other members of those same organisations. I have arranged a practise walk for them along the Donnington Way through the Cotswolds which links up the public houses supplied by Donnington Brewery. They are strategically situated such that each can be reached in a day by a horse and dray. In order to avoid any embarrassment from taking the wrong route, two of us walk it beforehand. Driving through the Cotswolds is a pleasure but walking it is even better. Across the countryside, there are numerous scenes and places of interest that the standard tourist is unlikely to see.
The actual day is beautifully sunny for a walk but, at about 13 miles, hardly involves any serious exertion. A detour near the end to another village pub extending the mileage ends in helpless hilarity when it transpires that it is closed. Well at least I think it is funny. Martin’s face is a study, probably hallucinating about a cold pint of real ale as instead we lie on the village green, non-alcoholic drinks in hand. As a travelling rugby player and cricketer, I think he may equate alcohol as an essential part of any serious training.
All’s well that ends well as we close the day by joining the Rotary Club of North Cotswolds at their evening meeting at yet another pub in Stow-on-the-Wold. No doubt the local publicans are used to walkers coming in clad in boots and other attire suitable for rambling. However, as a mark of respect to our Rotarian hosts, en masse we disrobe in the village square and put on our suits. It is the middle of summer and nobody seems to mind a group of old fogies displaying their wares. Once inside, Martin gets back into training.
Spring - Summer 2008
Training takes a variety of forms.
The Club run a Dragon Boats event. The races are on a moat amidst the impressive background of Broughton Castle, home to Lord and Lady Saye and Sele. Famous as a place where Cromwell met his generals before the Battle of Edge Hill in the Civil War, the family (Fiennes) also boasts actors (Ralph/Joseph) and adventurers (Sir Ranulph) in its recent history. The latter was the first person to circumnavigate the earth’s surface via both the North and South Poles. Dragon Boat racing is hardly kayaking but nevertheless would have been fun. Unfortunately I am heavily involved in the organisation and do not have time to have a go.
I am volunteered to take part in a mini triathlon at Blenheim Palace on 7th June for another charity. It is a beautiful setting. I have never done anything like this before. Swimming in the lake, albeit cold as we have to tread water for five minutes before being permitted to start, is the sort of experience to chalk up but not necessarily to hanker after again. I hate the running, which is gruelling and painful even though if I go much slower I’ll go into reverse, but the cycling through the Estate around the landscape designed by Capability Brown is enjoyable. It reminds me of when I was flying to Saudi Arabia with a group of people, none of whom knew each other, to work on an Irrigation Project at the then new King Khalid International Airport outside Riyadh. When asked what his expertise was, one of the party said that he was a landscape architect. ‘Oh, you are a gardener’ was the unwelcome reply. Landscape Architect or Gardener, the grounds of Blenheim Palace are a delight. I am well down the field in terms of time but I complete the course and justify my sponsorship.
I join the Banbury and District Canoe club and use one of their kayaks on the local canal. All goes well until the following week when I use a slightly less stable model and promptly turn turtle. Unable to Eskimo roll, I am forced to somewhat inelegantly drop out of the craft into the less than desirable water and swim to the side. Many years ago I used to shoot rapids on rivers but the saying that you never forget how to ride a bike seemingly does not apply to kayaking. More practising is a must.
22nd March 2008
I receive an invitation from Leonard Chestire Disability (LCD) to be a passenger on an air to air refuelling flight from RAF Brize Norton. This is a legacy from a previously successful fundraising initiative involving a multiple abseil, the distance covered in the exercise being equivalent to the height of Everest. It is a great day out shared with other volunteers. We fly over the North Sea and back down to the Bristol Channel, refuelling jet fighters and being refuelled ourselves. The control that these pilots have in manoeuvring their aircraft so close together is immensely impressive. I take the opportunity to bend the ears of Francois Gallais and Maurice O’Connor (fundraisers within LCD) about my idea. It is well received. Another hurdle is overcome.
Spring 2008
So now I have an idea, but I need a charity and one that is not going to be deterred by the risks involved. Leonard Chestire Disability’s School 4 All in Africa project is one of Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland’s international charities of the year for 2008/9 and the cause is one that exhibits three characteristics that I believe are important, if not essential, in any charity – need, deliverability and sustainability. I have undertaken an abseiling event for them in the past which was turned down by another charity due to insurance concerns. In contrast, Leonard Cheshire Disability welcomed that idea with open arms and enthusiastic support. As far as I am concerned, they have a promising track record.
Winter 2007/08
The proposal becomes general knowledge within the Club. A number of Rotarians and members of Inner Wheel are interested in joining in, some cycling, others walking. Gradually the principle of the route develops to cater for this with two walking sections (approximately 100 miles of the Pennine Way and the entire West Highland Way) separating three of cycling.
Autumn 2007
I am in a Council meeting at the Rotary Club of Banbury and suggest that a good way of raising money for charitable purposes would be to do something different that captures the imagination. What have I in mind? To extend the traditional Lands End to John O’Groats route incorporating the southernmost and northernmost points of the British Isles, Bishop Rock on the Isles of Scilly and Muckle Flugga lighthouse on Shetland respectively. The mode of travel will be by kayak, bicycle and shank's pony. There are some jovial comments as to how easy such a trek would be and it appears there is a consensus that it is an interesting if somewhat ambitious plan, but not a serious goer. Business passes onto the next point. I suspect that my colleagues do not anticipate that the idea will be raised again.
Are my fellow Rotarians right? Am I being unrealistic? I float the idea with two friends, one a yachtsman (Ron Middleditch) with over 10 years service in the Royal Naval Auxiliary Reserve and the other an experienced kayaker (Michael Punter). I’m not sure what I expect, but their independent responses are that although it would be difficult, they consider it feasible and would both be interested in joining in the sea sections. Perhaps there is something in this.
I take the idea back to Council at the next meeting with more details and this time I am given the green light to pursue the matter further.