Last Friday, the Silver Duke of Edinburgh's Award cycling group headed by minibus up to the Brecon Beacons, from where they had a three day cycle route, bringing them all the way back to King's. At the same time, eighteen intrepid Silver Duke of Edinburgh's Award walkers set out for Exmoor! 

For the cyclists, though the journey up there was long and tedious, they managed to enjoy their pre-expedition pizza in Brecon, before setting off from Llangors Lake in good time on Saturday morning. Day one went without a hitch, and the group enjoyed stunning weather and scenery, particularly as they cycled south from Hay on Wye along the edge of the national park. Spirits remained high as they began day two from Abervagenny, and although some persistent puncture issues delayed their crossing of the Severn Bridge, they were settled into their campsite just East of Bristol by 7:30pm. Day three started at 5:30am, as the boys were keen to get cracking. And though navigation of the last bit of the route threw a late spanner in the works, the expedition finished successfully, as the boys descended from King Alfred's Tower to cruise home at 4 o'clock. Across the three days, this was one of the most impressive and fluent silver group performances that Mr Loveless has ever led. Huge credit goes to the boys who took part, and thanks too to Mr Tickner, the external assessor.

For the walkers, after a couple of late withdrawals, eighteen intrepid participants set out for Exmoor. After an unexpected trip down the M5, tents were pitched, food distributed and sleep sought. Early morning saw a beautiful sunrise which promised a hot day ahead. Crossing Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor, some groups found that their navigation rustiness added hours to the day, but all eventually reached camp. Hot, tired, tick-infested (soon dealt with - thanks Max!) and blistered, meals were prepared and a very early night was enjoyed by all. The second day went better; routes were navigated with more precision, blisters still hurt but the end was in sight. The third day found the participants following the ‘rugged’ South-West Coastal Path but all showed great perseverance to reach Minehead and enjoy an ice cream!

All participants successfully completed the expedition and displayed great determination, teamwork and good humour. When the aches and pains have faded away, you can walk properly again and just remember the fabulous sense of achievement, perhaps you should consider entering for the Gold Award!

An album of photos from both expeditions can be seen below.

Tom Loveless & Martin kirk - DofE Cooridnators