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Sunday 8th June
Duke of Edinburgh Award

Bronze Walking Assessment (2), Long Mynd, Returns

The Bronze D of E cohort completed the expedition section through undertaking a 2 day, 1 night self-contained journey in the area of the Long Mynd last over the weekend of the 7th – 8th June.

The four groups were dropped of in All Stretton on the Saturday morning and made their way along different routes to the top of Pole Bank which, at 516m above sea level, is the highest point on the Long Mynd.  The groups were lucky to have the area more or less to themselves on what was expected to be a busy weekend due to the good forecast that had been encountered.  After a week of meticulous planning during lunchtimes the groups were able to put their new found navigational skills to good use through preparation of route cards that they then put into action to successfully travel along the main ridge before dropping down to camp at the peaceful camp site of Hamperley.  The groups voiced their appreciation of the area and were entertained by both the views, mountain bikers and the busy gliding club that they walked past during the day.
 
The group all arrived at the campsite ahead of schedule and once they had erected tents and had a rest found themselves at a bit of loose end!  So was born the adapted game of ‘Roll Mat Rounders’!  Basically a game played the same way as rounders with the bat substituted for a roll mat that is worn on the arm instead.  This was a great success with everyone fully involved, and was adapted again later on after evening meals to make a much improved version of the game. 
 
The second day saw the groups leave the campsite at between 7:30 and 8:30 for the final yomp to Stiperstones car park which would be the end of the venture.  The journey was once again undertaken in good weather with all groups completing their journey as per their route cards in good spirits having demonstrated sound navigation, camp craft and group skills.  Once again the youngsters’ general attitude to the weekend, as well as their behaviour, was commented on by several people in the area in a very positive and complimentary way.

ADO