Once again, Dartmoor saved its best and worst for us in the same weekend.

Fifty to sixty mile an hour winds buffeting into us and bombarding us with hail showers, followed by glorious sunshine; it is the most beautiful yet hostile place. To say that the pupils were surprised by the difficulty of the conditions and the terrain would be an understatement. They found the Saturday hard going, walking 30km, and had to dig deep to make sure that they made it to camp around 8pm. Spirits rose when they had managed to get a hot meal inside them and some sleep.

Getting up at 4.45am to start walking at 6am didn’t phase them as they set off alone into the Dartmoor wilderness. Now, having a better idea of the challenge that faces them, they have become wise to the this old lady and given her the respect that she deserves. Both teams now have the experience, confidence and necessary teamwork to fulfil their potential and complete the challenge.

All will be revealed in two weeks’ time when they head down to Okehampton to participate in the 35 mile Ten Tors Challenge.

Good luck to them all.

Seamus Harkness - Ten Tors Team Leader