Voyager

He has started again

2012-01-12T14:03:00.002Z

After a long period of very little running I am, at last, getting out a bit more regularly. Sunday was a great early morning run over North Hill. I am also getting out on the bike most weekends thanks to my son and his new road bike.

Why this new found enthusiasm? Well, if don't run for a long period of time it is very difficult to get started again, once started don't stop. Also the Cerne Giant 30 is only 79 days away. This is a new event in familiar territory, the plan is to walk/run (how much of each, we shall see).

Cheese rolls in the mist

2011-12-01T10:28:00.000Z

Most of my backpacking trips are short weekend trips. These normally comprise a circular route back to the car with a camp in the middle. The aim this time was to go from A to B.

I left my car in Talybont and took the early bus to Brecon. After a quick shop for some more food and a laminated map. This proved a vital purchase. I then caught the bus to Crai.

Grey morning with small patches of blue over to the east, the last I would see all day. I followed a wide bulldozed track towards Fan Gyhirych and then climbed to the top of Fan Nedd. I sheltered from the wind behind the cairn before the summit where I had my lunch.

As I dropped down the hill to the large car park at the rain started to come down hard. The rain dripped off my hood, sleeves and nose but seemed to sit happily on my glasses.

On the other side of the valley I joined the Beacons Way and immediately got misplaced as the cloud became thicker. With quite a bit of wandering about and standing in bogs I climbed the hill to Fan Llia. I followed the ridge north the wind and rain increasing all the time. A couple of times the wind knocked me over. About 3 o'clock I started to look for a sheltered spot to camp. The ground was wet and steep, I could not see the wind and rain stopping. I finally decided that, although I had brought my camping kit, I was going to head for the youth hostel.

The next morning was brighter and cold. Today's route followed the Beacons Way back to Talybont. I slowly plodded up the hill to meet a crashing wind as it came over the ridge. A beautiful bright day ideal for walking along a ridge.

The central section of the National park is the most popular and there were a lot more people out today. I climbed the three main summits (Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big) of the ridge before heading down to Talybont reservoir. This was the brightest part of the day and I enjoyed the quiet tramp through the woods and tracks.

I was a bit disappointed to miss out on a camp but next time. In case you were wondering the are no verbs in the title of this post.

John Muir Trust Big Give Christmas Challenge

2011-11-21T21:50:00.001Z

Is there anything more exciting than a half packed rucksack nearly ready for the weekend? I think not. I am off to the Brecon Beacons on Saturday.

More importantly if you donate to the JMT between 5th and 9th of December your donation will be doubled. Ideal if you don't know what (else) to get me for Christmas.

http://www.jmt.org/biggive.asp

Details of how it works and where the money comes from are here.

Tay Descent 2011

2011-11-09T22:00:00.004Z

Phase 1 Training
Louis and I arrived at Loch Lomond for our training paddle after a very early start from the South coast. We met up with Michael and Graham who provided extra gear and most importantly the boat. Before undertaking an event like the Tay Descent (23 mile course) you should always put together a training plan. Half an hour later training complete and it was down to Corries for 4 full Scottish breakfasts. It was great to meet up with them again.

Phase 2 Acclimatisation
The next phase on the way up to Perth was a stop at the fine Glengoyne distillery for a tour and tasting. After a bit of head scratching souvenirs of the trip were purchased (we both went for the 12 year old single malt). We met up with Michael again at registration and headed up to Grantully.

Phase 3 Base camp
The SCA campsite in Grantully proved to be a perfect base for us. Simple facilities, sheltered pitches and friendly residents. As is traditional the orange tents made a showing again.

Phase 4 Race preparation

We made our first visit to the Tully Bar for Lamb Stovies in front of the fire and many discussions about ... well I cant really remember, except meeting Richard - Michaels partner in Lilo.

Phase 5 The paddle
After dropping off a vehicle at Perth we returned to Dunkeld for the start of the race. Nervous thoughts calmed by meeting a few friendly faces from the DW.

We dropped into the river above the bridge in Dunkeld. Unfortunately Michael and Richard had been unable to wait for us at the start line, possible because of the strong current or a strong determination to win above all else. The first section if the river was a nice easy start drifting down the river admiring the tress on the bank and the hills behind. Then we hit the rapids at Campsie Linn, well, we decided to take the "Chicken run" around the side. Next was Stanley Weir. This is where the fun starts, you drop down the weir into a mass of mixed up waves. Brilliant.

That is me in the front that is...

Phase 6 Recovery
We returned to the campsite all fairly shattered. It was only 3pm but we decided to shift our time clocks forward by 2 hours. This meant as it was 5 we could go to the pub and go to bed at 9. Graham had joined us again to review our efforts. This seemed to involve mainly shaking his head sadly at us.

A sign of a great trip is the enthusiasm to repeat it. The was no shortage of this as we said goodbye. It was just a question of how and with who. Without question The Tully Bar will be involved.

Not much activity but some plans

2011-10-17T21:48:00.001+01:00

Not been up to much lately but that is all about to change. Loius and I are leaving "Equatorial Dorset" and heading to the far flung north. Last year we meet Michael during the Devizes to Westminster kayak race. Michael has recently put some very poor photos on his blog, which I urge you to ignore. We are heading up to Perth on Friday to take part in the Tay Descent with him and some of his associates.

Tay Descent 2011 - 22 Oct 2011 - Perth from SCA on Vimeo.

As basically a non-paddler, I am a little nervous about spending 3 days with the wet ones. A full weekend is planned with a trip to Loch Lomond, Glengoyne, Perth and then back home via Ben Vorlich.

Next month I am off to the Brecon Beacons for a trip following the middle section of the Breacons Way. Solid ground (with a bit of bog) on which to plant my feet.

The hills around Taw Marsh

2011-08-11T21:43:00.000+01:00

Another great trip around the Taw valley. We started from Sticklepath and after a quick stop for extra Quavers in the village shop we headed up through the woods.

When we left the woods the long pull up Colsden hill started. If you are thinking about doing this route I would probably do it in the opposite direction but we wanted to explore the hills on the eastern side.

We sat in a ring of stones near the summit of Colsden Hill to have our lunch before dropping down to Little Hound Tor and Hound Tor. Little Hound Tor is just a small rise in the ground with a couple of flat rocks breaking through.

As one of the things Will wanted to do was climb a few Tors we discussed whether Little Hound counts as a Tor. We decided as it had "Tor" in the name it must do. I might contact Lucy to check. By the end of the weekend we had climbed 7 Tors.

We continued south to Wild Tor for a scramble around the rocks before sitting out of the wind and finishing the remains of our lunch.

We crossed the stream to Steeperton Tor and then found a flat spot to camp near the head of the valley. From the top of Steeperton Tor you can see to the villages and roads on the northern edge of Dartmoor and south to bleak centre.

After a good night we set off with hot chocolate in hand towards Oke Tor and Winter Tor. We arrived in Belstone in perfect time for Sunday Roast at the Tors Inn. Slightly reluctantly we set off down Belstone Cleave following the river to Sticklepath.

Lyme Regis - Runners vs. Paddlers

2011-06-22T23:40:00.000+01:00

We were planning a trip to North Wales, but unfortunately I had to cancel it. To replace it we came up with another epic adventure for middle age men who should know better. Just think Top Gear but without the budget, cars or sofa based racism.

The plan was to start at Lyme Regis and make our way back home. Grumpy Old surfskier and his mate paddle while Simon and I run/walk along the Coastal Path. The weather beforehand had been pretty rough but we arrived in Lyme early on Sunday morning full of hope.

The least enjoyable bit of the path is the first sectoin to Charmouth due to the diversions, landslips and sections of road. From Charmouth we followed the Charmouth Challenge route over Stonebarrow to Golden Cap

The day had started fairly calm with some sun but as we moved east the wind picked up and it got cooler. Occasionally looking out to sea we could see no sign of the paddlers. They had planned to head out to sea and then follow a long downwind leg to the end. However because of the rough conditions they had to keep closer to the coast and follow a more zig-zag route.

Seatown, this is where I began to struggle, the hills really starting to hurt. Through Eype, nearly home now.

We clattered down the hill to West Bay wondering when we would see the paddlers.

Taking the sensible option, they had decided to come in at West Bay harbour rather than crash on the beach at Burton. We arrived almost an hour after them so they were pretty cold when we found them sunning themselves behind a wall in the harbour. To pick up the car, we carried on running to Burton Bradstock before returning to West Bay.

Over breakfast with our families the tricky question of the win was discussed. Stopping part way through because you realise the win will be at the expense of a smashed boat does not feel like success. Getting to the end so you can rescue the opposition, that has the smell of victory. But maybe that is just me. There are rumours of a rematch Fathers day 2012.

Offa's Dyke - Monmouth to Hay on Way

2011-05-08T18:50:00.000+01:00

29 April
With the rest of my family stretched from the Isles of Scilly to Brighton, Will and I met up with my Dad for this years Offa's Dyke trip. The long drive to Hay on Wye started with the weather still looking hopeful. We got going a bit later than planned after time spent dropping off the car and eating breakfast in Crickhowell.

We left Monmouth through Kings Woods heading for Llangattock-lingoed just east of Abergavenny. Today's section of the Offa's Dyke path is mainly though fields and small sections of wood. One book describes it as "pleasant though unexciting farmland". I think this is a bit unfair the countryside is very gentle but it is a fine walk and certainly better than watching someone get married.

We stopped for a late lunch by the River Trothy. When we reached White Castle we left Offa's Dyke path briefly and joined the Three Castles Way.which follows a more direct route down the hill to Caggle Street.

We stayed at a wonderful B&B in Llangattock. After I had booked it my Dad pointed out it was the same B&B we had stayed in 30 years ago when he and I walked the path.

30 April
The next day after a few more fields (including Kenny Dalglish field, keep reading to see why) we crossed the main road at Pandy and started the climb up Hatterrall Hill. When we reached the trig point the wind was blowing hard across the border. This wonderful section of the path with its great views enlivened us all. Someone really started to enjoy their surroundings, previous comments about "not another sheep field" were left in the past.

We joined the Beacons way to drop down to Llanthony. After a quick tour of the Priory and 2 small campsites we headed to the pub where we were to stay.

1 May
We climbed the steep hill back up to the ridge Will really enjoyed this and probably went faster up the hill than on some of the flat bits. It is a balance doing long walks with kids. Finding something that is the right distance, challenging enough but not too dangerous. Planning your escape routes if the weather, enthusiasm or kit fails you.

To a great extent it will depend on the child and their experience and motivation. One thing we did do was play a lot of word games. We played about 50 games of "guess who"; someone thinks of a person and the other have to guess who by asking questions that can only have a yes or no answer.

We continued along the ridge over Black Mountain. The weather was colder but still clear as we walked along the top before finally reaching Hay Bluff where we dropped down to pick up the car.

The next bit to Hay on Wye

2011-04-28T21:54:00.000+01:00

Following on from last year’s trip we are about to set off to walk the next section of Offa’s Dyke.

The plan was to walk from Monmouth to Hay on Wye, starting in Hereford. Let me explain. It involved leaving a car at Hereford and getting a bus to Monmouth, walking to Hay on Wye then returned to Hereford by bus.

“The wedding” which has made this 3 day trip possible has also messed up the plan. The bus is not running on Friday as it is a Bank Holiday Monday.. Change of plan required and larger carbon footprint to offset. Excitement is building.

Backpacking in the Arans

2011-03-15T10:51:00.000Z

I have not been to North Wales for over 15 years and choose the Arans for my first trip back. It is a quiet area to the west of Bala in southern Snowdonia. The route came from v-g backpacking in Britain, an excellent site, if I only have 10 or 15 minutes to spare and want to go backpacking this is where I normally head.

We started the long drive from Dorset early on Saturday morning and eventually arrived at the southern end of Lake Bala. We left the car in Llanuwchllyn and slowly climbed the track up into the mist. The ridge to Aran Fawddwy is a series of smaller summit gradually increasing in height. As we reached each top the mist cleared enough to see the next top. Would we have started this if we had seen the full route to the top at the start? Probably not.

We passed the only other walkers we would see all weekend before we reach the summit of Aran Benllyn. Surrounded by cloud we moved along the ridge with glimpse of the valley on either side. As we came off the main ridge and down towards Drysgol we could finally see Creignlyn Dyfi, a small tarn sat high above the valley.

Camped on some relatively flat ground near the bottom of the valley, we were opposite the outflow from the lake digging a groove in the steep side of the valley.

After we had eaten the rain started and we were then subjected to 5 hours of rain followed by 5 hours of buffeting winds. In the early hours the wind would die down, then you could hear it rush over the ridge above us then five seconds later hit the side of the tents.

When we clambered out of the tents to see snow of the eastern slopes of Aran Fawddwy. As the clouds were still low and I didn't want to hang around so we started straight up the slope to Foel Hafod-fynydd. I struggled up the steep climb to the ridge and as we made our way along the fence line to east the sun began to push through the clouds.

We dropped down to Cwm Du contoured along the steep valley sides and past the old farm at Cwm-ffynnon. The views back to the main ridge were amazing even though the tops were still in mist.

Before we started the back down the valley to the car we stopped for breakfast. Sitting in the green valley looking back at our route. The sun was on us but there was still a cold wind. After a bit of a trudge along the road we returned to the car. 15 years away from North Wales and it welcomed me back with rain, howling winds, snow and a beautiful ridge walk ... fantastic.

Around Shipton Hill

2011-03-06T15:55:00.001Z

With one away on a geography field trip and the other taking part in a mammoth game of football at the park, I escape for a run upto Shipton Hill. It was a wonderful afternoon.

Forget birdsong and daffodils, the first sign of spring is when you get too hot in your Helly.

What next

2011-03-02T21:30:00.000Z

For the last few years I have run the Grizzly, this year I have decided against it. I was lucky to get a place as they are taken very quickly once the entries open. I have managed to pass on my place to a friend who has the joy of the valley of bogs ahead of him.

I am not exactly sure why I am not keen to run it this year. It is always difficult to articulate to other people why you do these things but surprisingly easy to justify to yourself. This time I could not really talk myself round. The other thing is this year I want to do more backpacking trips. So on the weekend of the Grizzly (12/13 March) I am going to walk along the Aran ridge. So I will be enjoying the clear blue skies of North Wales instead of running over beach and bog in South Devon.

Northern Dartmoor

2011-02-02T22:33:00.001Z

Saturday morning the small carpark in Belstone seemed busy but the village was quiet as usual. I left the village past the church and joined the Tarka Trail for a short way.

I dropped down to Cullever steps and then followed the tracks towards Yes Tor. It turned into a bit of a foggy flat day, the kind when it is difficult to tell what time of day it is. I always seem to be a bit apprehensive at the beggining of a trip, unsure what is ahead and if this is a good idea. As I got higher the wind and interest increased The grass was covered in a thick frost.

High Willhays in an easterly wind

The ground was frozen hard so when I reached Sandy Ford it was the first time I got my feet wet. From the ford I climbed the steep hill to Kitty Tor and across to Great Links Tor.

After Ger Tor I followed the sheep tracks down to Tavey Cleave. Be careful where you come down to the leat. As I found it is a bit of a scramble along the rocks before I get to a crossing point.

Tavey Cleave is a beautiful gorge with steep sides, towering rock piles and a crashing stream. I followed Amicombe Brook up stream until I found a suitable spot for the night.

A very cold night, my small thermometer read -5 deg C at some point. My old 3 season sleeping bag did not really cope despite wearing most of my clothes, so I was glad when it started to get light. After warming up the gas cannister in my jacket pocket I used the stove to defrost my boots and make porridge.

I think I agree with Phil about the unsuitability of Sealskinz socks for backpacking. Once they do get wet they take ages to dry and in winter freeze over night if you are not careful (see foreground of picture below). I am going to stick to merino wool which dries quickly and keeps you warmer.

Sunday was a much brighter day with perfect views across the moor. I reached Fur Tor and had a second breakfast sitting in the sun, out of the wind.

Fur Tor

The next top was Cut Hill, here I met Joe and Einstein. They have started (and made a great start at ) the great challenge of climbing 300 tors in 12 months for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research.

I headed north to Hangingstone Hill, Wild Tor and then up to Steeperton Tor. This is the best approach to Steeperton Tor, you get the views across Taw marsh and the surrounding tors but the climb is much more gradual.

I took the direct route down Steeperton Gorge and, after checking out the bottom of the gorge for possible camping spots headed down towards Belstone. Finishing off a great trip with egg and chips at the Whitehouse cafe.

Corfe Castle run

2011-01-27T21:17:00.000Z

Many were called but few are chosen, well few didn't think up excuses fast enough. I invited 6 people to come for a Tuesday night run in the Purbeck hills, but in the end it was just me and Simon.

Having parked in the dark shadow of the castle we started the run up towards Nine Barrows Down. We followed the excellent track on the way up with the guns of Lulworth range booming behind us. As we approached the top our enthusiasm to reach one of Dorset Marilyns meant we left the track and on the way down struggled to rejoin it.

Crossing the road to Ballard Down we ran along the side of the hill before turning for the steep climb to the Obelisk. Luckily there was a plaque we could pretend to read as we caught our breath.

Once through Studland we ran through sandy heathland and woods back to Corfe Castle. This was a mix of small road and forest tracks, at that time of night only over looked by deer and rabbits.

We both agreed that we should come back in the daylight because it was a great route and the views over Poole Harbour and Swanage must be amazing. I have only included this photo of Swanage to prove it came out... sort of.

The search for hills continues

2011-01-18T22:28:00.001Z

Having started the new year with a new job I am struggling to get some miles in. The Grizzly is fast approaching.

The new job is going well, thanks for asking, but there is a distinct lack of hills around Bournemouth Airport in the Stour Valley. Lunchtime runs are short and flat, not great training for a long hilly run.

Plans for 2011 are still a bit vague. On the horizon are a couple of days backpacking on Dartmoor, a Scotland trip, the next section of Offas Dyke, the Grizzly and a possible support run on the Oner. Actually when I think about it looks like a good year on the way.

If anyone knows how I can get from Hay on Wye to Monmouth by public transport, I would be grateful to hear.

The Full Monty Cute

2010-12-06T23:18:00.001Z

Crewkerne Running club organise a great cross country race. Apparently it is around the grounds of Montecute House but because of the thick freezing fog on Sunday I did not catch a glimpse of the house. I even managed to not spot one of the trees on Ham Hill and ran into it, but that is another story.

The 10 mile race consists of 10 hills, some of them requiring the use of hands and feet to get up, separated by muddy and icy paths.

My time was 1 hr 58 mins which considering how many hills I had to walk up I am pleased with. The winners time was 1 hr 11 mins which is amazing thinking about the hills. That's it no more running (till next year).

That is me on the far left trying not to fall down the first hill.
Photo gratefully taken from gallery link on website.

Full Monty Cute Website

Book review : The Natural Navigator

2010-11-25T20:07:00.000Z

I came across this book after reading a review on the Skills for wild lives site.

The blurb on the back of the book says "Put away your map and look up from your GPS". Navigating without a map and compass is not really what this book is about for me. It is about appreciate more of your surroundings. There are lots of interesting practical facts and tips about navigating using the environment around you. Where does the sunrise through the year, how the stars rotate on the celestial sphere.

This is not just a manual. The information is also combined with history and folklore. Lots of research has gone into navigation techniques used by older cultures. I won't be giving up the map and compass, in fact I have still got a lot to learn but I will try and be a bit more observant. I will probably reread some of the sections but this more a comment on the reader rather than the writer.

There is a link to the book on amazon on Nicks Skills for wild lives site

Short trip around the Mynydd Du (Black Mountain)

2010-11-17T22:49:00.001Z

We set off early for a much anticipated thrip to the Brecon Beacons, this meant that by the time we reached Neath we were ready for breakfast. This was to set the tone for the rest of the trip as you will see. The first cafe we came to was called "Nu cafe" and it was marvellous.

The camp site at Dan-yr-Ogof caves was closed for the winter but walked though to the path that leads up the Afon Haffes and then up on to the ridge which leads to Fan Hir. The only rain shower of the day blew over us as we reached the ridge.

After lunch over looking Llyn y Fan Fawr we continued along the ridge before turning south above Llyn y Fan Fach.

Fan Foel

Llyn Fan Fach

We camped near the river Afron Twrch (SN801196). One of the ground rules for the trip was that we all had to bring our Argos Hike-lite tents. In the night we had some heavy rain for a few hours and the tents stood up very well to it. Luckily it was not very windy as I am not too confident in the poles but for £20 and 2kg it is a great buy.

For supper we had "Look what we found" Chilli con carne and Smash followed by cake and custard and mulled wine. Louis has recently bought an Eydon Kettle which he was keen to try. We had a cannister stove for the food and the kettle for drinks. The Eydon kettle boils water so quickly that we could hardly keep up with the coffee consumption.

In the night the rain stopped and the skies cleared. A cold start was improved by cinnamon porridge and too much coffee. We followed the track through Carreg Goch, a collapsed landscape of shake holes and crags. All too soon we were heading downhill to the road.

Feels like -10

2010-11-04T22:43:00.001Z

We have got a trip to the Brecon Beacons planned next weekend. However I am beginning to hate metcheck.com. It may not be entirely their fault.

Update the next day : Now it says Sunny 8 deg C. Lesson learnt don't look at long term forecast.

To work

2010-09-28T23:29:00.000+01:00

It is only a short walk to work but sometimes I have to remember to look around.

Across Wales Walk Sept 2010

2010-09-11T20:44:00.000+01:00

5 o'clock on the border of England and Wales, surrounded by head-torches and anticipation. Simon and I set off down the road to start the Across Wales Walk.

The adventure began the day before as we left the south coast after lunch arriving in Ludlow late afternoon. After a couple of attempts we found a pub serving food and sat down with lasagne and chips to have another look at the map and come up with a realistic finish time. After registering at Clun village hall we spent a slightly nosiy night sleeping on the hall floor until 3:15.

The sun came up as we ran along the Kerry Ridge way, the start of an amazing day. We ran the first couple of sections with a group of runners who had done the route before and enjoyed their company and their help route finding.

After Check Point 1 we reached a high point above Llandinam and ran over 2 km a wide track downhill all the way to the village. We crossed the River Severn for the first time and joined the Severn Way.
After a short road section we reached Check Point 2, otherwise known as Jaffa Cake heaven. Our new friends left us after the check point as the hills started to rise before us with great views over Bryn y Fan.

The route takes you along the side of the Nant Gwestyn with a very steep drop down to the trees and stream below. I tried to point out the view down to his left but Simon seemed focused on looking straight ahead.

As we dropped into the valley of the Severn again we had a new experience. In the past, out running, we have been attacked by dogs, cows and seagulls. In a narrow enclosed lane we were attacked by a sheep which charged at Simon. I decided that cowardice being the better part of valour to leap into the hedge while he defended himself with his Garmin Forerunner.

We followed the long road into the Hafren Forest where we reached Check Point 3. This provides toilets and soup, both greatly appreciated before we started the climb up to Plynlimon. Once you leave the forest the long trudged up the tussocky grass to the first col starts and then on to the summit. The views from the summit cairn were amazing back over the route we had come and over Nant-y-moch (Valley of the pigs) reservoir. We dropped down to the road around the reservoir and on to Check Point 4.

By this stage we had covered about 32 miles and we were now walking and were being caught by the faster walkers. Leaving the road we covered a beautiful section over the scree path and down the Leri valley to Check Point 5.

Here I made a mistake. On offer at Check Point 5 is the famous Bread Pudding, the recipe is available on the acrosswaleswalk.co.uk site. In my confused state I missed it. Simon, who is no fool, had 3 bits and the next morning told me how delicious it was.

The last stretch was 7 road miles to Clarach Bay, to finish in 14 hrs 10mins. A minibus then takes you to Aberystwyth University Halls, where a bath and a massive plate of fish and chips await.

A fantastically organised event which covers the whole weekend. The event is obviously a favourite with a lot of people and I can see why. The route which covers a range of contrasting beautiful country, the friendly participants and the support from marshalls all make it worth coming back.

At the end of Across Wales Walk

2010-09-08T21:48:00.001+01:00

Thanks to everyone for their support and donations. I made it, what a great day. I will be writing up the story of the day and putting up some of the photos I took along the way

At the end, sitting by one of the thousands of caravans in Clarach Bay

Just Giving

2010-09-01T12:36:00.002+01:00

Thanks to everyone who has donated via the Just Giving pages. It has been a very generous response.

A note to anyone else thinking about setting up a Just Giving pages - in the last week before the event it sends you an email each day giving you a countdown. I think it is trying to give you some last minute fund raising tips, sort of helpful. If you read between the lines it is actually saying is

- Do you really think you have done enough training?
- Are you up to the challenge?
- You are going to let a lot of people down if you fail!

Or may be that is just me. 3 days to go by the way.

Dorset Doddle 2010

2010-08-31T21:52:00.002+01:00

This years event had a limit on the number of entries so the start seemed a bit calmer. As Nigel and I set off we were soon left in the no-mans land between runners and walkers ambling along Weymouth seafront.

The first section to Lulworth went well and the weather was perfect for running, cool and grey. The first checkpoint is in the massive car park at Lulworth before you head up Bindon Hill.

The weather started to deteriorate with a few spells of heavy rain. When we got to the climb up Rings Hill most things were covered in mist. Navigating the route is never too difficult as you just keep the sea on your right. I was glad I had done the route before because any delays wondering which path to take are very frustrating after 20 miles.

You can just make out our rivals disappearing in the mist

The coastal path was very slippery, covered in a thin layer of mud and a number of times I was on my backside sliding down hill. Nigel did not want to be outdone so as we neared Swanage he slipped down a section of path and performed a mid air forward roll. During his flight he had to make a decision whether to land on the rocks or the gorse. The gorse was fewer points from the judges but a safer option so he went for that.

Finish time was 9:04, half an hour quicker than last year. This has messed up my technique for calculating finish time as I came 55th out of 146 finishers.

Thanks again to the Dorset LDWA and all the people at the checkpoints for another great event.

Probably Higher Tor and Belstone Tor

2010-08-21T18:59:00.000+01:00

It was a long promised trip, so when the weather turned all autumnal on us we decided to go anyway and shorten the trip if necessary.

We left the car in Belstone and set off into the mist on Friday evening. At the edge of the village you join the track to Taw Marsh, we were greeted with a heavy downpour so it was coats on and heads down.

As I had left work late it was soon getting dark. After a couple of miles we started looking for somewhere to camp and found a bit of shelter off the track in the bracken.

The night was blustery but fairly dry. Next morning we were still surrounded by mist, so rather than walking further up the valley we headed up to Higher Tor and then Belstone Tor.

A shorter walk than planned due to the weather but still a fun trip. As you can tell.

Not too long now

2010-08-17T22:56:00.000+01:00

Just under 3 weeks to go until Across Wales Walk. At the moment I am feeling a mixture of nervousness and "well there is nothing I can do now". A sluggish 5 mile run at lunchtime did not help my feeling of preparedness. I have got a trip to Dartmoor to organise and the Dorset Doddle to run. They will help keep my mind of it for a while.

As I have mentioned before here, I have 3 ways of estimating finish time.

Option 1 - minutes per mile
Last long run/walk was at 17 minutes per mile so this gives 13.5 hours

Option 2 - Double last year's winners time
Last year the winning time was 8.5 hours so that is 17 hours

Option 3 - 80th percentile
Looking at the results that is about 16 hours

None of them look very good. I guess Option 2 gives the best indication of the terrain and distance, but hopefully I will nearer Option 3, 16 hours..

Steps up and down

2010-08-05T23:44:00.000+01:00

In a few weeks we are going to have a go at the Dorset Doodle. 32 miles between Weymouth and Swanage. This will be my last long run before Across Wales, which is two weeks later. As a bit of training we decided to run from Swanage to Kimmeridge Bay and back again, the last section of the Dorset Doodle.

We started from Durlston Head car park and for the first mile we were followed by a friendly dog, who hopefully found its owner after we chased hm off. After some fairly flat sections the steps start beyond St Aldhems Head.

Chapman's Pool

As the skies cleared the views west towards Weymouth imporved. As we were running out of time Andy was the only one of us to make it to Kimmeridge.

Kimmeridge Ledges

We turned and headed back up the steps we had come down and down the steps we had come up. You get the idea, there were a lot of steps.

When we to back to the car park, three of us were glad it over as it was getting very hot and we were beginning to flag. Andy, on the other hand, who has completed the Grand Union Canal 145 mile run was only just warming up. He kindly put up with our "its up hill therefore we walk" policy.

Route statistics

Number of miles : 22
Number of hours: 5
Number of steps : lots
Number of ladies asking if anyone in our group was called Bernard : 1

West Okement River

2010-07-26T23:18:00.001+01:00

Welcome to Kitty Tor

It was a beautiful high cloud blue sky afternoon on Sunday. On the way back from Cornwall I stopped at Meldon reservoir for a run around some of the tops. My route followed the hills above the West Okement River.

Publish Post

Finishing the Wessex Ridgeway

2010-07-21T23:22:00.001+01:00

This is our 3rd attepmt to finish the Wessex Ridgeway. Previous attempt include a DNF in the Wessex Relay race organised Gillingham Trotters, then last November we tried to do the whole route in 2 very wet and windy days. See this post for details.

Last weekend we started at Beaminster followed the Rdigeway route as far as Wootton Fitzpaine, before heading to Charmouth on the coast and along the coastal path to West Bay. 25 miles and about 5,800 feet ascent.

The perfect training run for Nigel who is doing the Dorset Doodle with me and Simon who is doing the Across Wales with me. I am sure I have got the short straw there.

It was a great day, perfect weather and a very good route. However we decided that they have got the name wrong. Ridgeway conjures up following a rocky narrow route that stays high above the green lowlands. It should be called "Wessex up one hill, down, look around for the next big hlll and go up that". Not as snappy as Ridgeway but more accurate.

The best part of the day was early on when we climbed Lewesdon Hill and stood amongst the pine trees over looking the steep sothern slopes. A beautiful place with great views across Marshwood Vale to the sea.

I forgot to take my camera so instead of a beautiful view from Lewesdon Hill all you get is my blister. That is a blister plaster not the actual blister.

On the kit front I was very pleased with my Montane Bionic T-Shirt, the mixture of polyester and wool makes it very comfortable in a range of temperatures and it wicks very well without feeling clammy. I will definitely be using this on the longer events coming up.

I love the smell of bracken in the morning

2010-07-06T06:34:00.000+01:00

I set off early Saturday morning on one of my standard off-road loops, through Shipton Gorge over the hill to Bridport then Eype and back along the coast path.

The best bit is the hill above Bridport a narrow ridge flanked by bracken and dry stone walls. This is the nearest I can get to a Welsh hill top without resorting to the car. On the OS map it is called Bottom Wood but I think its name is Bothen Hill.

The last few miles home were a bit more difficult than they should have been. I was very hungry by the time I got home.

AWW page

2010-06-30T21:39:00.002+01:00

I have added a new page to the blog about my attempt to complete the Across Wales Walk. Beware you may be asked to sponsor me.

Inspiration from Thunder in the Night

Offa's Dyke to Monmouth

2010-06-20T00:47:00.001+01:00

After a short tour of the Taunton Retail Parks car parks, we picked up my Dad and set off for Monmouth. The plan was to drive to Monmouth, take the bus to Chepstow and then walk back to Monmouth following Offas Dyke Path. 33 years ago we had walked the route, this time we are here with my son to follow the Wye Valley again. Walking Offals Dyke Path aged 10 had been my introduction to backpacking.

After finding the free car park and a quick coffee in Monmouth, we got aboard the "Chepstow Classic". Slightly disappointingly following the grand title this turned out to be a small bus with only 2 other passengers. We arrived in Chepstow and headed down to the river to see Chepstow Castle.

Leaving Chepstow we headed up through Lancaut Nature Reserve. The hills are covered in beautiful woods, for about 4 hours we walked through the woods without crossing a road.

The struggle to finish the last couple of miles to St Briavel's Castle Youth Hostel was soon forgotten with the excitement of exploring the castle. In the evening we made for the village pub to watch England play USA in what may turn out to be England's best game in the World Cup.

Our stay at the hostel was a great success. On Sunday we headed down the road towards the river. We followed the Trail through open beech woods and down to Redbrook. For the last few miles we followed the River Wye to Monmouth. A great weekend enjoyed by everyone. The traditional introduction to backpacking completed. Can something be a tradition if it has only happened twice?

Ready to start walking north

2010-06-11T21:03:00.001+01:00

Bags are packed and we are ready for off. The rucksacks are lightweight but some of the contents are not. Inside the Villain are 2 tins of sausages and beans.

Will and I set off early tomorrow picking up my Dad on the way so that three generations can start walking Offa's Dyke path from Chepstow to Monmouth.

Purbeck 10K

2010-05-13T20:31:00.006+01:00

The strange thing about the Purbeck 10K is that the start is a mile from the start. So having parked at the Purbeck Sport Centre we walked up to Puddleton Road where the race starts. All afternoon the clouds had been getting greyer, it started to rain and turned into a cold May evening. Lots of murmuring about being too cold to do a good time tonight. It seems standard practice for runners to start listing reasons for not being on top form in the lead up to a race. Anyway I had not managed to do my last few training runs but was just there to see what I could do.

After joining the nervous queue for the toilet I met up with John and Graham from work. They were hoping to do 50 minutes, so I decided to stick with them. I have never run under 50 minutes and have been training with that in mind for a couple of months.

It is a straight 5K out and 5K back along a road closed to traffic. The first few kilometres went well, just before 4K I was passed by the leaders tearing up the other side of the road. Some people find that aspect of the race demoralising but I quite like it. We completed the first 5K in just over 24 minutes and having only been passed by 2 penguins, I was quite happy. A local team had decided to do the race as penguins, fast penguins mind you. The real tricky bit was between kilometres 7 and 8, Legs are feeling really heavy, lungs are empty and I am not sure I can keep it going for another 3K. Now, I may be happy to see the leaders race past me the first time but to see them with rain jackets on jogging back along the road to warm down, that is demoralising.

The last kilometre should only last 5 minutes, so it was just a case of head down and get to the end. I finished in 48 minutes 40 sec, very pleased. Now I can get back to some longer distances, ideally with a bivvy bag.

No map, no compass

2010-05-07T19:52:00.009+01:00

On Thursday night the plan was to run the last bit home from work again. I had planned a new route which included about 5 miles of paths and tracks that, although not far from home, I had never covered before. Before we arrived at the start of the run I realised I had left the map on my desk at work.

Should I try and follow the planned route or fall back on a well known route home? Would I get a sense of freedom just running, following paths as they appear, making choices based on feel. I wouldn't have to get the map out and consult it. No comparisons between symbols on the map and the real world. I have sometimes thought about doing a backpacking trip over two or three days with no planned route, just venture into the hills and follow my nose. Would I spend more time enjoying my surroundings.

"I only went out for a walk, and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in" - John Muir

I know it is supposed to be about the journey not the destination, but I like to know the where the journey is taking me. As I was no more than 10 miles from home I could not get too lost. But as I ran over Eggardon Hill and through Powerstock Common I still spent time at path junctions scratching my head, wondering if one of the choices would lead to a dead end. I like the sense of control a map gives you, even if it is misguided sometimes.

Run home

2010-04-22T22:12:00.004+01:00

The blog has been a bit quiet lately, partly becuase I have been trying to run a bit faster for an upcoming 10K. I dont normally enter 10Ks, they involve too much short-term pain for me. I came up with idea of running the Purbeck 10K in under 50 minutes, something I have never done before. Why do I come up with these ideas? Perhaps if we work together we can come up with a cure. As a friend pointed out "This might be your last chance, you are not getting any younger". That is motivation that is.

However as I have got some longer events coming up this summer I thought I had better get some miles in. On the drive back from work tonight I was dropped off 10 miles away and ran home over Eggardon Hill. It was a beautiful evening and a great run. I did stop to take a picture with my phone but as you can see the best thing about the phone is the price (smallness of).

Devizes to Westminster support crew

2010-04-04T21:12:00.007+01:00

We crept into Devizes early on Friday morning, to find the Wharf car park full of activity and excitement. After the obligatory bacon roll we got the boat off the car and prepared for the day. My job was to meet Louis 3 or 4 times on the way to Newbury providing him with extra food and water. Camp at Newbury and then do the same the next day to Marlow. The driving on day 1 was simple, Day 2 was a bit trickier. I am still not sure how I got out of Reading. From Marlow to Westminster the A Team were arriving to take over support duties.

At Crofton Locks I met a great Canadian couple who were checking out the route, because the next day the would be starting the "straight through", 125 miles non-stop from Devizes to Westminster. Doing it in 4 days is hard but that is another story.

The camp at Newbury was at the Leisure Centre, and was as I pictured it really. Camping on the grass outside a leisure centre. Note team tents, bargain Pro Action Hike Lite 1.

Day 2 started early but all I had to do was pack up camp and drive to Marlow. I did not have blistered hands and pain running down from my neck to hands. During the day you met other support teams, and like the paddlers some are first timers and some are experienced hands. Most of them a pleasure to meet.

The camp at Marlow was a fantastic setting on the river front. Not sure you can get any where else in Marlow for £6 a night. Camping among the trees looking out over the river. Makes it sound beautiful but is was a damp muddy April night and the toilet block was pushed to its limits, but let's not go there, sorry I mean don't go there. I left the A team support crew to it on Sunday morning and headed home for Easter eggs.

I met some fantastic people, supporters and racers. A lovely family from Nottingham supporting mum/wife, who just seemed to get stronger each day. And obviously it was an honour to met Michael Yeomans and the brains and brawn of the outfit Graham. After some blog based conversations its was a pleasure to share the promised whiskey with him out of polystyrene cups standing in a carpark.

It has taken me so long to write this up that he has finished now. DW 2010 completed in 26 hours 35 minutes. An amazing achievement, considering.

Waterside D

2010-03-22T20:50:00.008Z

Sunday was my first training trip for the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race. Am I worried that it is only 2 weeks away and I have only spent 5 minutes in a K1? To the uninitiated a K1 is a fast, unstable, uncomfortable, light weight 1 man kayak; think of it like a unicycle with racing tyres. I am not worried because I have got the easy job - part of the support crew.

Louis and I left Dorset at 4am on Sunday morning to get to the start of the Waterside D race in Devizes. After we had arrived I wandered around the Wharf car park watching all the crews prepare, amazed at the number of people mad enough to get up this early to get wet and cold on a Sunday.

My job is basically to be in the right place at the right time with food and drink. Meeting Louis at various points between Devizes and Newbury. So having had a bacon sandwich and watch my crew (see how I have picked up the lingo) set off I left for my first met up point.

Tan Hill - Wiltshire Downs

During the day I watch some amazing displays of endurance, most impressive were the Junior crews (under 19s). However as I only meet up with Louis every 2 hours or so I missed some of the excitement like being attacked by a swan, nearly crashing into the side of Savernake Tunnel and being "on the rims" after 28 miles.

I am really looking forward to the big race now, particularly camping in Newbury Leisure centre car park. Eat your heart out Andy Howell.

Grizzly 2010 race report

2010-03-08T21:15:00.008Z

Four of us arrived in Seaton, not necessarily prepared but committed to running the Grizzly. I was nervous, not sure about the others. What I do know is that we were all cold. Frantic searches began for extra layers of kit to wear. Anyway here is my account from the back of the pack.

The race started off again along the beach then up and over the hill to Beer. From there it took a different route up the valley and over the next hill to Branscombe Mouth. This year we headed into the village of Branscombe and through the woods to Bulstone. After a number of painful twists and turns up the hills we arrived at the first bog (I think this was about 13 miles). Foolishly as we came dripping out of the far end I thought "well that was easier than last year" a few miles later a longer and deeper section awaited. I began to lose my sense of direction in the narrow valleys with runners ahead of us hammering past on the other side of the valley.

After running through Branscombe Mouth again we reached the hardest bit for me, the mile section along the beach before we started the climb up to Hooken Cliffs.

Last last few miles along the coastal path were fantastic looking back across the cliffs to Seaton. There was great support again all the way round from lots of spectators, marshals, a piper, rock bands and fiddles. It is becoming a favourite and if was not so hard I would do it again.

Now we come to the difficult subject of finishing time. At the moment I am not sure of my exact time but about 4 hrs 40 mins. This is a bit slower than last year but the course was different. Anecdotal evidence suggest the course was harder, but would you trust the judgement of anyone who had just run 20 miles over cliff top paths, bogs and steep wooded valleys - no. Analysis of this years results compare to last year show that the top 20 runners were on average 4 minutes slower this year. ( You have to admit that is alot effort to justify being a bit slower ). The end result not pretty.

Click here for last years report

Half Term Adventure

2010-02-17T14:15:00.003Z

Flyrocs old and new

2010-02-12T20:07:00.011Z

Thought I would give a few of my impressions of the new Flyroc 310s now that I have been out in them a few times. The toe bumper and the rand are more substantial on the new version. The sole pattern is exactly the same but it does seem to be made out of a harder rubber compound. This may however be just because of the age of my old pair and with time the new ones may soften up.

On both edges of the ball of the foot there is some extra protection with is helpful for running on rocky ground. The same textured rubber coating is around the heel, which is slightly higher. As far as the weight goes they are supposed to be the same but I have not check as this would entail cleaning the mud off.

Apologies for the photos the front and back of the shoe are in fact in perfect proportion :)

Overall the new version feels like a more substantial shoe but still make a comfortable light off-road running shoe. I have mainly been running in the new ones but my impression is that they will be a better walking shoe than the old version.

Stickler plus a bit

2010-02-04T11:10:00.005Z

The idea was to meet up in Shillingstone and do the Stickler route in reverse plus a bit because we all wanted to do more than the 10 mile. What is the definition of a bit? It turned out that a bit was another 9 miles.

We started up Hambledon Hill and had beautiful view down the River Stour. The conditions were freezing and the ground was rock hard with frost. Next was Hod Hill and down to Stourpaine.

We left the Stickler route at the top of Norton Lane and headed through Turnworth. Doubling back on ourselves from Oke Breacon we ran through Blandford Forest and back down to Durweston. Rather than run along the road we decided to cross over and run along the old railway track.

As is obvious to anyone who can read a map this was not a good move but to 4 tired runners the gap where the railway bridge was before Dr Beeching came as a bit of a surprise.

So we headed back towards Hod Hill and eventually Shillingstone. 19 miles in about 4 hours. Home for a fry up.

For the full route click on the map below.

Steeperton Tor

2010-01-15T19:53:00.014Z

Last Saturday I made a quick dash down to Dartmoor before all the snow melted. It is probably still there now, I have not checked. I decided to go to Belstone as it is just off the A30 so hoped that it would be not too snowbound. The village looked beautiful under inches of snow.

I made my way up the valley and out on to Taw Marsh. Although it was late in the day there were a few people about, mostly on heading down the valley as I went out.

When I got to the end of the valley I decided to go straight up Steeperton Tor and crashed about in the snow past my knees. Should have remember my gaiters really.

I headed back along Oke Tor and Belstone Common before dropping and down to Belstone.

Click here for the route.

Snow at last

2010-01-07T20:57:00.004Z

I have at last started building up some mile for the Grizzly. Last week 23 miles and the plan for this week is 26. We have been very lucky in South Dorset I suppose and have had very little snow until yesterday. I am a bit envious seeing other bloggers getting out walking and running in the snow. Today I could not run at lunchtime because the paths were too icy, which was a bit frustrating. Tonight I read that other people have found the solution. Tea and Cake is inspiring even when not running/biking/mountain marathoning (not sure that is a verb).

I am now ready for tomorrow.

Plans for 2010

2010-01-03T20:24:00.003Z

After a very good 2009 an inactive Christmas holiday (in terms of of outdoor adventures) has got me thinking about plans for 2010.

Well already in the calendar are The Grizzly, The Stickler and supporting a friend doing the Devizes to Westminster canoe race.

What I would like to do more of this year are solo backpacking trips to North Wales and the Black Mountains, and hopefully the Across Wales walk.

My son is keen to do another Dartmoor trip and so am I. But this evening he was asking about the trips my Dad and I did on Offas dyke when I was his age. He thought it would be a good idea if we finished it. Dad and I got from Chepstow to Knighton, walking for a 2 or 3 days each Easter holiday.

I think Scotland is off the cards this year, even though when I am looking at books and websites and begin to plan my dream trip that is where I always end up.

Happy New Year

A Lifetime of Mountains - a short review

2009-12-13T18:12:00.011Z

I have been up to very little on the outdoor front over the last few weeks. It is only 12 weeks until the Grizzly so I had better step things up soon.

I have been reading A Lifetime of Mountains a wonderful collection of pictures of the Lake District from 1951 to 2004 when A. Harry Giffin was the Country Diarist for The Guardian.

The columns cover his experiences climbing and walking, stories of rural life and the natural history of the Lakes. The book is edited by Martin Wainwright who ties together various parts of Harry's life and writing. What I enjoyed was the way the short and precise columns carry you on to the hills. Harry was a founder member of the Coniston Tigers from a time when you could tell who else was out on the hill from the nail pattern left by their boots.

Quick kit check

2009-11-22T21:45:00.007Z

A couple of peices of kit worked really well on the Wessex ridgeway trip.

I was originally intending to take my OMM Running Light sack but it was just too small. Instead I took the OMM Villain recently bought from Baz. It was a bit too big for the job but still worked really well. I stripped most things off it and swapped the Platformat back for a cut down bit of foam mat. Very comfortable all day even when running. One of the best things are the pockets on the hip belt. Why have I never had a sack with these before? Genius.

The other saviour on the day was my Montrail Streak shoes. Before the day I had only been out in them 3 or 4 times, so it was a bit of a gamble trying to do over 30 miles a day with them. They are a great shoe with good cushioning and enough grip for muddy hills and tracks. They are not as agile as my Inov8 Flyrocs nor have as much grip but I think my feet were grateful for the extra cushioning by the end. The uppers are very free flowing is probably the best phrase, on a windy day you can feel the breeze round your toes. So probably not a shoe for mid winter. For a better review have a look here at backpackbrewers site

As I have recently worn out 2 pairs of old wool/nylon socks the next thing to look out for is socks suitable for light backpacking/walking/running.

Wessex Ridgeway

2009-11-14T20:51:00.009Z

For both of us the lane out of Shillingstone seemed familiar and yet out of place. Without the crowds of runners and the adrenalin of a race the hills felt steep and we noticed more. We had detoured from the route of the Wessex Ridgeway slightly to take in 2 of the hills of The Stickler again.

We had been dropped in Tollard Royal just before dawn and walked through Ashmore Woods as the sun had come up.

Reaching 11 miles in about 3 hours we were feeling optimistic. Despite the bad weather forecast the sky was clearing and we had great views over north Dorset. As we reached Alton Pancras (25 miles) we were both beginning to tire and the earlier optimism was beginning to drain.

When we reached Sydling St Nicholas cold and sore we made our first mistake, carrying on.

We bashed on down the road in the dark towards Rampisham masts. By now the rain was coming down hard and we were very cold and tired. With very little shelter on the ridge and as tired as I have ever felt we did the sensible thing and phone for a lift home.

The achievement was to complete 42 miles in one day but the mistake was not to stop while we still had clear skies and energy left to sort ourselves out and warm up. The weather forecast was never good and we learned some valuable lessons. I would like to attempt another walk/run bivvy trip, maybe in the spring.

Wessex Ridgeway - Part 1

2009-11-03T22:50:00.004Z

Last year 3 of us entered the Wessex Ridgeway Relay. Due to an over ambitious plan to run the 100km relay with 2 slow old blokes and one slightly younger, quicker bloke with a bad knee, we did not make the end. (Which one am I? - a clue my knee is fine.) Most teams have 6 members and run the off road route in a time between 8 and 12 hours.

We reached the hill above Beaminster way behind everyone else having got badly lost and down to 2 men so we decided to call it a day.

This was our first DNF (Did Not Finish - printed on race results instead of your time) and meant there was unfinished business out there. Taking inspiration from this and also the 84km Bivvy Challenge Simon and I have decided to give it another go but in a different format.

http://www.bikehike.co.uk/mapview.php?id=23139

The idea is to walk/run the route over 2 days. We will start from Tollard Royal early Saturday morning. Overnight will be bivvying under a hospitable hedge with views over the Marshwood Vale and out to the coast, luxury. Towards the end of Sunday we leave the Ridgeway before its official end at Lyme Regis and head for home.

The route means we are never too far from home so if things go badly wrong we should be able to get home fairly easily and the north Dorset wilderness is not exactly remote compare to other peoples plans.

Kit has been planned and currently stands at 4.5 kg without and food or water. It is basically made up of Clothing, Sleeping, Food/Cooking and Others. If you want to see the details click here. We hope to pick up some food and water in a couple of the small towns we pass through.

All I can do now is look at the weather forecast and hope it all works.

The Stickler 2009

2009-11-01T20:58:00.003Z

For some reason every one at the end of the The Stickler said they had really enjoyed the race. If you had seen their faces as they sat around the playground of Shillingstone Primary school at the end you might have thought otherwise. It was a beautiful day, with sunny skies and a strong wind on the top of the hills. The course was mud free and only 2 sections were steep and slippery down hills.

Last time I ran The Stickler I did 2:01 this time I did 1:54 so the lunchtime runs must be doing some good.

The race is very well organised and has the best bacon rolls in the world on offer at the end, if you are tempted.

Asics Gel Enduro 4 - Final look

2009-10-11T21:50:00.001+01:00

I have had these shoes since December last year (Asics Gel Enduro 4 - Initial look). I have used them for 5 to 10 mile runs mainly on road with some off road. I may have done about 350 miles in them. For long off road run I normally use my Inov8 flyrocs. The midsole has pretty much had it and the sole is coming unglued. This may be due to the wet conditions but is pretty disappointing for less than a year. The upper is still in very good condition.

Shoes are a very personal choice but from my point of view here are the pros and cons.

Pros
- very good value
- ideal for mix of road and off-road
- durable upper

Cons
- Sole coming unglued
- Tread pattern not deep enough for steep ground
- not enough cushioning for long road runs

What next? Montrail Streaks maybe.

Dartmoor pictures site

2009-09-15T21:40:00.004+01:00

I have been looking though this site which has some beautiful pictures of Dartmoor.

http://www.mileswolstenholme.com/photo/667/Towards-Brentor-from-Cox-Tor-Dartmoor

I think Belstone up the valley to Steeperton Tor, might have to be our next trip.

Tent bags

2009-09-11T20:53:00.005+01:00

It has become obvious over the years of trying to get tents into bags which are marginally too small that there is a world shortage of tent bag material.

My proposal is that we setup a Tent Bag Cooperative, the name is TBC.

Within this organisation the following rules apply

medium tent owners give their bags to the small tent owners
large tents owners give their bags to medium tent owners
enormous tent owners give their bags to large tent owners

Notes
Definition of enormous, large, medium, small to be defined at a later date.
“enormous tent owners” refers to the tent not the owner

Problems
Enormous tent owners left with no bag.
Left over small bags.

Solution 1
Sell small bags on eBay and use profit to buy enormous bags.
This will only work if tent distribution is biased towards the small end, which I don’t think it is.

Solution 2
Setup a not for profit organisation to manufacture enormous bags
Everyone who enters the scheme has to pay a minimal fee which is used by the organisation
Use the small tent bags as peg bags for large and enormous tents.

Any thoughts?

Dorset Doddle

2009-08-28T20:25:00.004+01:00

Some people may be interested in entering The Dorset Doddle as a run. People do, however for the past couple of years I have mainly walked the 32 miles from Weymouth to Swanage along the coastal path.

On Aug 23rd my friend Simon and I turned up in Weymouth with rucksacks full of water, nuun tablets, jelly babies and cereal bars. I was a bit nervous about completing this year because I have done very little long distance training. Most of my running has been 4 or 5 mile lunch time sessions.

We walked the first 6 miles to Osmington and then ran the flat and down hill bits until Kimmeridge, that is not actually a lot of running because there are quite a few up hills. The terrain does get a bit easier from Kimmeridge with only a few steep flights of stone steps to contend with, but by this stage the only option was a fast walk. The fast walk then turned to a slow walk as the temperature rose and the steps up to St. Aldem's Head rose.

Last year I took 9 hrs 28 mins, this year 9 hrs 27 mins. An improvement of 0.18 percent, steady I think we can call that.

The event is well organised by the Long Distance Walkers Association, who provide 5 checkpoints with water and some food as well as a pasty and cup of tea at the end. There is a lime limit of 12 hours and this year the winner finished in 5 hr 24 mins

The best bit about the finish is flat grass provided outside the church hall which you can lie down on.

As one of our nearest and dearest said at the end

“Could you have not done something more useful with 9 1/2 hours”

Possibly but I doubt it.

Upcoming Doddle

2009-08-19T21:40:00.003+01:00

On Sunday I am going to have another go at the Dorset Doddle. Last year I cover the 32 miles in 9 1/2 hours. This year I have done very few long distance runs/walks so the strategy (if you can call "walk 20 miles then see how I feel" a strategy) is less ambitious.

The LDWA do a great job organising the whole event and, if you get to Swanage on time, even provide you with a pasty.

I shall be wearing my Inov-8 Flyrocs for the last time. After 4 good year the uppers have finally started to tear. Just hope the shoe and the wearer make it through the day.

That has messed things up ...

2009-07-21T20:30:00.003+01:00

Both my current backpacks are ancient POD Sacs, both about 20 years old. The Cragsac pictured is showing some signs of wear. It soaks up a bit of water now and the fabric on the lid is starting to come apart.

The xPod is a 70+ litre sac, which is great load carrier but my ancient version is about 2.6kg. This leads to the obvious question what next. I prefer simple, slim packs that don't mind if I kick them about a bit. In the short-list are:

OMM Villain
Crux AK57

And now this appears

New POD Sacs for 2010

There is not much detail, no weights or volumes ... should I wait?

Peter's Cycle Africa expedition

2009-07-13T21:41:00.003+01:00

I met Peter on the train to work a few months ago. He has now stopped work as he is preparing for his next big trip. As part of his trip to South Africa he is raising money for the Against Malaria Foundation.

On his fascinating website there are some great photos and inspiring stories.

http://petergostelow.com/

Black Tor

2009-07-09T21:37:00.007+01:00

How adventurous should your first backpacking trip be? Take it too easy and you will not feel the sense of being out in the wild, away from civilisation on your own. The other extreme and, apart form the obvious risks to life and limb, you might come away thinking this is not for me.

The plan for Will’s first trip was to have a relatively short walk over some rough ground and then camp out using tarps and bivvy bags with an easy route back to the car. Our route went from Meldon reservoir up Yes Tor, over some open ground to Black Tor where we would camp and back down West Okemeet river to Meldon reservoir.

After following a good track from the reservoir we headed over some rocky ground straight to the top of Yes Tor. The wind was very strong on the top and there was a strange feeling to it, with lots of signs of man, including litter, pipes and mess. After a bit of discussion we agreed that this was not a good place to camp so headed west to over Longstone Hill.

We put the tarp up on Black Tor and had sausages and beans watching bands of grey clouds fighting for space in the sky with sunshine.

The weather was unsettled and I was not confident we would have enough shelter, so we headed down and pitched the tarp near the river. Despite a few heavy showers in the night we stayed dry enough.

After a quick hot chocolate breakfast we headed down the river through some boggy ground.

I can see how the tarp and bivvy is a great way to camp. For 2 people we could have done with a bigger tarp but for one it is perfect. The clue is in the name really – Solo Tarp. The only problem we had was that although we were sheltered near the river it meant that there were a few more midges (and I forgot the repellent).

As Will said at the end “I don’t want to see concrete and roads, I want to see more bracken, rocks and grass”. I can’t argue with that.

Tarp practise

2009-07-03T22:47:00.000+01:00

Very soon we are going to make a trip to Dartmoor to sleep under one of the Tors. The tarp I bought from backpackinglight many months ago has sat in the cupboard for too long. It is time it came out into the light. There is lots of information setting up and using tarps available

Tarp DVD
Andy Howell's Going lighter guide
Colin Ibbotson on tarps

so having looked at a few of them, I decided to have a go at setting it up in the garden.

The Solo tarp is designed for one person; I don't think I am being wrong if I say one and a half of us are going. It will be my son's (age 9) first backpacking trip and we will be taking bivvy bags and the tarp and making sure that the forecast for Saturday night is clear. To see if I put him off for life you will have to wait for the next post.

A Frame

Lean to (or it only rains from one direction round 'ere

Low A frame

Loch Lomond

2009-05-12T23:34:00.014+01:00

Fri 8 May
Dad and I arrived in Glasgow early Friday morning and set off towards Loch Lomond. The weather forecast had been very bad and as we reached Adlui the sun was breaking out but patches of rain were also sweeping across the hills.

We drove up and down the road and eventually found the right lay-by in Ardlui. Starting the climb towards Stob an Fhithich, we reached the trees and could see a small waterfall at the ridge and great views over Loch Lomond.

The wind was very strong on the ridge and we stopped to put on extra clothes, before carrying on to Stob nan Coinnich Bhacain and down Corrie Creagach.

We went to Real Food Cafe in Tyndrum for some great pie and chips, and then to an expensive unfriendly B&B, but that is another story.

Sat 9 May
The sky was a bit greyer and the clouds seemed here to stay. We decided to start up An Caisteal and see what happened to the weather. The climb up to the ridge was hard work and the rain was turning to snow as we reached the ridge and Sron Gharbh.

Further along the ridge the snow got heavier and thicker underfoot so reluctantly we decieded to turn back. Despite the look on my face it was a great trip and a memorable experience.

Decision Time

2009-05-06T06:15:00.002+01:00

It has been arranged for months, Friday booked off work, flight arranged, babysitter for 3 days lined up (Thanks Mum), one person has even broken in new boots for the trip and now MWIS tell us conditions are going to be difficult with Heavy showers, of snow above 700m;. Do we go anyway and walk a bit of the West Highland Way in the rain (1992 all over again)? Do we go and walk some other lower level hills? Whatever we do I need to go to Scotland soon, you can only stay away so long. I wish there was a webcam on Ben Vorlich, they really must sort that out.

Trip diary

2009-04-09T22:47:00.006+01:00

I have been writing up my walking trips in a diary since the late 70s when I was started walking with my Dad. This has spanned about 4 notebooks now (one of which is lost somewhere).

Each trip entry normally starts with a kit list and some practical information required en route. This could include phone numbers, bus and train times, or village early closing days. This is followed by a record of each days walk. Looking back through the pages food and weather seem to take top priority followed closely by under foot conditions. The great thing about them is looking back years later to read the details of a trip. What we had to eat in the café at the end of the trip, the names of the 2 small boys we meet at Lake Stream Hut in New Zealand, the man in the purple Vauxhall Nova who gave us a life back to The Bridge of Orchy.

There are some rules about what warrants an entry.

* No days walks
* No static camping weekends
* No Holidays in the mountains (eg Arabba 2001)

This leaves backpacking trips where at least one night is spend in a tent. bothy, hostel or B&B.

This brings me to the reason why I have been thinking about this issue. In May we are going to Crianlairch for a few days walking, returning to the same B&B each night. Does this warrant an entry? The ruthless could say “It is just a couple of day walks, one after another”.

As we hope to climb a few Munros, these need to be recorded but there are plenty of other places to record the bare facts of the achievement www.hill-bagging.co.uk. Some justification for breaking the rules include “Well I need some where to write a kit list”, “It is nice to look back and remember the small details of trips”.

I am going to use it. It is a self-imposed law so I can approve an amendment without worrying about opposition objections. Or may be I could start a blog ...

Grizzly 09 race report

2009-03-25T21:40:00.006Z

For those who have not heard of it The Grizzly is a multi-terrain race of about 20 miles (the route and distance vary a bit each year), it runs between Seaton, Beer and Branscombe in East Devon. When they say multi-terrain it means stretches of road and muddy country lane, woods, pebble beach, rivers, cliff path and the infamous bog.

I set off towards the back of a field of about 1500 runners. The first mile was along the sea front at Seaton, which is a nice ankle turning slope of pebbles, about half way along I started to walk, not a good sign. My aim was to get round between 4 ½ and 5 hours, so I set my self a schedule of 12 minutes per mile for the first half and 15 minutes for the second half.

The first section after the beach loop heads up the hill out of Seaton and then down into Beer. We now reached the first bit of off road as the route follows the coastal path onto the cliff path. Down a steep track (ahh my knees) to Branscombe. We now reach the first interesting section as the route follows the course of the river, (yes in the river) across the beach to the Mason Arms. Lots of support outside the pub, no you cannot stop for a pint.

After about 10 miles I was 5 minutes ahead of schedule, but by then I had only walked up a couple of steep hills and more was to come.

At about 12 miles we reached the bog, if you did not know it was coming you can tell by the screams of disgust and delight from the runners who were already in it. People general took 2 approaches; negotiate your way around the edge trying to keep out of the deepest bits or go straight through. The second option, which I went for, guarantees mud up to thigh level and the chance of getting stuck, but people are very friendly and stop to help pull each other out. Photo on the right is courtesy of James Pyne Event Photography.

After the bog you make your way out to the coast path again and down to Brancsombe. What followed was the worst bit for me, along the beach and then up what seemed like an endless series of steps. At the top one of the many motivational signs informs you that you have just been up the “Stairway to Heaven”. I did pass a couple of people sitting on the steps looking out to sea wondering why they even stated this game.

All the way along the route there is great support from very vocal spectators, 2 pipers (both in kilts), steel band, jazz band, and folk music.

In the end I finished in 4 hours 36 minutes, happy, muddy and tired.

Would I do it again? Well I definitely would but my calves need convincing … give them time.

Thanks to Axe Valley Runners for organising a great race.

Black Mountains

2009-03-17T21:11:00.015Z

We left Dorset early Saturday morning and arrived in Abergavenny at 8:30. I was delighted to see the Grecos Italian cafe was still there, the last time I visited was about 17 years ago. However Grecos was closed so we went on to the market and had a great breakfast roll and tea to set us up for the day.

We drove on to Cwmyoy, and after a bit of tour of this steep hillside village found a spot to park. Setting off up the Cwm Iau we soon reached the slopes of Hatterrall Hill and the chatting stopped. Once on the top we joined the wide path north along the ridge. This part of our walk followed Offa's Dyke path for a long way so the track was well worn and even in February we saw a few people out.

We sat down for lunch looking over into Wales and the other ridges of the Black Mountains. The day was slightly overcast and misty but we could see across to Rhos Dirion. We continued along the ridge with great views into Mercia (if we are talking in Offa terms) over Black Hill.

At Hay Bluff, the end of the ridge, we turned east and dropped to Gospel Pass. After the climb to Twmpa we started to make our way down through some rough boggy ground to Grwyne Fawr. We reached the bothy as it was getting dark and quickly made ourselves comfortable. Well as comfortable as 3 men can be in a large shed, very.

The next morning, starting in the mist, we headed down the valley. As we got past the dam patches of sunlight hit the hills around us. After the car park in the Mynydd Du Forest we climbed back over the ridge into a beautiful sky. The path down to road zigzagged through the woods and took a wrong turn ending up fighting down a disused path to get to the road below Cwmyoy.

In terms of kit I used both of my stoves; the Pocket Rocket and my new White Box stove. It was great to have two stoves in the bothy as there were 3 of us it meant we could make drinks and food at the same time However I think I need to be a bit more careful with the White box as it did not appreciate having a pan with a wet base plonked on top of it. Definitely a success but some practise needed.

Estimating finish time for the Grizzly

2009-02-10T21:12:00.004Z

Method 1 - minutes per mile

On a long run (more than 10 miles) I try to achieve 12 minutes per mile so that gives me a time of 240 minutes or 4 hours

Method 2 - Double last years winning time

Last year the winning time was 2:24 so that is a time of 4:48 for me. This is probably more realistic but unfortunately gives some indication of the terrain to be expected.

Method 3 - 90th percentile

This feels like the most depressing method, by what time have 90 percent of the competitors already finished. Look at the results from last year again this gives me 4:51.

So from all this I think my target should be 5 hours.

That 3 weeks before an event feeling

2009-02-09T20:56:00.003Z

As usual with only a few weeks to go till the Grizzly I look back at my training and realise I have not done enough. After a long run by myself on Sunday I went out today with the runners from work in the pouring rain.

Well you can only do what you can, last week was a bit of a wash out because of the snow (should that be snow out).

A post on PTC* Blog has convinced me that my next sac is going to be a Villain. I think it would be perfect for our trip to the Black Mountains in a couple of weeks.

First off-road route discovered

2009-01-22T20:48:00.003Z

I have found a nice off-road today, through Branksome Park. Ran down to the beach and back through the park, pretty mud and rough under foot in some places. Just need to find a good way down now.

Only 6 weeks to the Grizzly now so long run at the weekend planned from Lyme Regis to West Bay. I am starting to increase the weekly mileage, might start work on core strength but might not.

Westbourne RC

2009-01-13T21:26:00.003Z

Westbourne RC met at my new place of work. So this week I turned up and tried to keep up. Very friendly and knowledgeable (about routes in the area) bunch. Monday run was OK but today I struggled a bit more as the pace was a bit quicker.

Superfly and White Box Stove

2009-01-11T14:16:00.005Z

New Jacket and stove arrived from backpackinglight this week. Very kind friends from my old job got me a few leaving presents include a virtual voucher (cash) for an outdoor shop. I have decided to use it to replace my very old Lowe Apline jacket with a lightweight Montane SuperFly jacket. The jacket is going to take some getting used to after using a heavier waterproof for so long.

As for the White Box stove, after years of using gas stoves this is a bit of revelation. First impression are that it is amazingly simple and robust design, however the flaring up can be a bit disconcerting.

For my forthcoming trip to the Black Mountains at the end of February I think I am going to take both the Pocket Rocket gas stove and the White Box. This is partly because there are 3 of us staying in a bothy, so it will be nice to be able to brew up and cook; but also because I am a bit unsure at the moment about relying on the White Box.

Finding a new route

2009-01-07T22:17:00.003Z

I started my new job in Bournemouth on Monday and today have been out for my first run. Down to the beach and back through Branksome Chime, mainly on the road but it is a start. Apparently Chime means a narrow ravine peculiar to the Dorset coast. Sure I will find some good 3 or 4 mile routes.

Cold and dark

2009-01-03T23:24:00.003Z

I have started the new year, happy new year by the way, with 2 good dark runs.

Tonight I ran into Bridport over North hill, as I got to the top I turned the head torch off and gazed at the clear sky and the moon shining on the sea. It was very cold on the nose and face (-2C) so even though I felt comfortable with the distance was glad to get home.

In and back

2008-12-24T13:46:00.002Z

Ran into Weymouth from Dorchester this yesterday morning and then back again in the evening. As we reached about 2 miles I was beginning to wonder if running back was such a good idea. I did feel a bit better towards the end but not much. At this time of year we spend half the time with headtorches on as the majority of the route is off road.

On the way back I felt much better, legs felt heavy bit much better overall. I think it is probably to do with not having enough food in the morning. I have still not completely worked out how much carbohydrate I need after after the operation.

Wet 5 miler

2008-12-16T22:40:00.002Z

Everywhere was very wet today, thick fog all morning but by the time I got out it had cleared and warmed up slightly. I ran up the hill past the tree protester though some muddy fields. I have got some sympathy with the protests because there are some beautiful big trees covering the steep slopes.

Shoes are holding up well, much better now I have sorted out the laces. The material used for the soles is quite hard and does not provide as much grip on hard surfaces as, for instance, the Saucony Jazz, but will probably last longer

Asics Gel Enduro 4 - Inital look

2008-12-08T20:46:00.011Z

I got my new Asics Gel Enduro 4 from Pete Bland Sports and have worn these for a week now. To be fair to them mainly in conditions that would be more suited to my Inov-8s.

Apologies for the poor picture quality, the only time I seem to be at home with time to take photos it is dark.

Overall it has been a very good start

good cushioning without feeling spongy
uppers are fairly solid and look as if the will last
Grip has been reasonable considering the boggy stuff I have been running in lately. Ideal for mixed road and footpaths which is what I bought them for.

However I am struggling to get the fit right over the arch of my foot, because I have a high arch it can get a lot of pressure over the top of the foot.

First experiment was to miss out a hole in the lacing. This was not too successful so as I was out running last night in my Inov-8s I thought why don't I use the lacing system recommended by them. Results to follow...

Me jealous?

2008-12-07T21:09:00.003Z

I may have to stop reading PTCs blog. His day trip to Beinn Ghlas makes me wish we lived in Scotland, instead of the other end of the country. Beautiful photos and a great write up.

November Check up

2008-11-29T22:12:00.002Z

Had a check-up at Dorchester renal clinic today. Consultant was very happy, blood pressure low. Staying on same medication.

Alpkit Wee Airic

2008-11-26T22:51:00.002Z

The new mat arrived very quickly from Alpkit. First impression is very light and easy to fold up and slide down the back of my POD Cragsac. Not quite as study as old 3/4 length Thermarest but smaller and only £17.50 so I am not complaining. Looking forward to real test soon.

Prize arrived from Darren now I need to buy one of those Nalgene hip flasks before we go to Brecon Beacons.

Good start to a monday

2008-11-24T22:59:00.001Z

Ran 7 miles from Dorchester to Weymouth to work today, beautiful morning but quite cold. Feet took a while to warm up afterwards. Felt a bit faint at the start but it went after a bit of walking.

At the renal clinic later in the morning they said my blood pressure was 110/74 which is the lowest I can remeber. This may have explained the feeling this morning. Everything else was fine and consultant very happy "come back in 3 months".

Thursday run

2008-11-20T21:56:00.003Z

5 miles in about 52 mins. Up wilson hill and then back via Nottington.

Wee Airic arrived today from Alpkit - looking forward to trying it, seems very compact.

I have won

2008-11-19T20:39:00.000Z

Just had an email from Darren to say that I have won something in his competition. How good is that.

First run for a while

2008-11-18T20:41:00.001Z

After having a man cold for a couple of weeks, I went out for my first run for a while 3 miles round the reserve. Felt OK but flagged towards the end.

Training log

2008-11-01T22:52:00.022Z

27 Feb 09 : 4 miles
26 Feb 09 : 5 miles
24 Feb 09 : 5 miles
23 Feb 09 : 4 miles

21 Feb 09 : 5 milrs
19 Feb 09 : 4 miles (1 mile PB 7.29)
18 Feb 09 : 4 miles
16 Feb 08 : 40 mins turbo trainer
15 Feb 08 : 40 mins turbo trainer

12 Feb 09 : 5 miles
10 Feb 09 : 3 miles
09 Feb 09 : 5 miles

08 Feb 09 : 12 miles
05 Feb 09 : 5 miles
04 Feb 09 : 3 miles

1 Feb 09 : 14 miles
27 Jan 09 : 5 miles

25 Jan 09 : 12 miles
22 Jan 09 : 4 miles
21 Jan 09 : 5.5 miles
20 Jan 09 : 5 miles

18 Jan 09 : 10 miles
16 Jan 09 : 5 miles :
13 Jan 09 : 4 miles :
12 Jan 09 : 4 miles : Branksome Park

11 Jan 09 : 7 miles : North Hill/West Bay
08 Jan 09 : 3 miles
07 Jan 09 : 3.5 miles

03 Jan 09 : 7 miles
01 Jan 09 : 4 miles : North Hill 40 mins
29 Dec 08 : 4 miles : Hills

23 Dec 08 : 7.5 miles : Run back
23 Dec 08 : 7.5 miles : Run to work

19 Dec 08 : 2 miles : Last run and sea swim with my friends at work
16 Dec 08 : 5 miles
12 Dec 08 : 5 miles

Current kit list

2008-10-23T20:23:00.004+01:00

I have been reading a lot about going light weight backpacking in TGO and various blogs.

This is my current list of kit in bracket after some of the items is the light weight alternative I would like to buy.

Backpacking

Solar 2 tent (Laser)
TNF Blue kazoo sleeping bag
Bivvy bag
Pod Expod rucksack 70 litre (OMM - MM45+10RL The Villain MSC or ...)
Pod 40 ltr cragsac 40 litre
MSR pocket rocket stove
MSR titan kettle
Montane Superfly
Montane Terra pants
Asolo Fugitive GTX
White Box Stove

Running

Inov8 flyroc
Asics Gel Enduro 4
OMM RunningLight rucksack
Montane windshirt
Ron Hill Trckster - original may not be the best but I love em.

Run to work

2008-10-13T20:34:00.000+01:00

Ran 8 miles to work today, partly in the dark. It was at a reasonable speed for me but felt hard at the end. During long runs like this strange thoughts come into our head - "If you wear a wicking top inside out do you get wetter" and then "When they put the first electricity pylon up and it made that buzzing noise in the rain did they panic". I am using a Petzl Myo 3 headtorch which is working OK might upgrade to Myo XP.

I am back

2008-10-12T20:48:00.001+01:00

I hope to use this site to record my activities and sometimes adventures in the outdoors. My main interests are off road running, backpacking and cycling (on and off road). I am also going to records some of experiences of having had a kidney pancreas transplant for over a year now.

In case you were wondering about the title it a reference to one of my first tents, seen above at Lake Stream hut, Nelson New Zealand. I know you cannot tell that for the picture but trust me.

Run out

2007-06-16T10:22:00.000+01:00

Well we made it back. After about 2 miles I got very low and spent the next half an hour stuff glucose tablets in to myself. It was a lot harder on the way back because of the terrain and obviously it was the second run of the day. At the end although we were all shattered I think we felt comfortable that we could manage another 8 miles on 30 June which is the aim.

Run in

2007-06-15T11:13:00.000+01:00

Ran in to work this morning. About 10k off-road, which we have done a few times before .. however today we are planning to run back again.

This morning blood glucose was 7.7 an hour before the run and 11.0 after the run. 40 minutes into the run I had a Honey Stinger gel.

2nd Call

2007-06-14T13:46:00.000+01:00

On Monday morning I got my second call from Oxford. The logistics this time were a bit different as we were both at work so had to get home, contact my parents to pick up the kids, and then left form Oxford.

After about an hour and a half we got a phone call in the car to say that the organ were not suitable and they were cancelling the operation. We turned around and headed home. I had mixed feelings again - relief that the stress and anxiety of getting there is over and disappointment that it is not going to happen this time.

For Starters

2007-06-02T09:12:00.000+01:00

I am on the waiting list for a simultaneous kidney pancreas transplant at the Churchill Hospital in Oxford. This month I have started to get phone calls asking if I can come in for an operation to be the reserve recipient. I guess that means I am near the top of the list.

In this blog I am hoping to log my progress on the waiting list and during recovery afterwards.