The Silver Duke of Edinburgh's Award cycling and walking expeditions over this past week-end were a great success.

In spite of the searing heat, both groups successfully and safely completed their three-day coast-to-coast expeditions, taking them from Lynmouth on the North Devon coast to Teignmouth on the South Devon coast. Day one (Saturday) started badly with two members of group one succumbing to a tummy bug, and consequently having to drop out. However, with their team down to just three for that first day, Emma, Huw and Ben confidently made it to Winkleigh, where Rupert and Jonathan moved across groups to even up the group numbers. Day two (Sunday) turned out to be the shortest day of the three, and the riders once again showed maturity and awareness, by making sure that sufficient fluids were consumed, sun cream applied and breaks taken in the shade at regular intervals. By the end of day two, pupils had made it onto Dartmoor, staying in Moretonhampstead. With the end in sight, both groups toiled hard on day three (Monday) to fight their way to the finish line by 4pm, leaving time for an ice-cream stop on their way home. Though not perfect in every way, the groups had completed their route, and proved to their assessor that they had successfully met all criteria. This means that they have now passed their silver expedition.

Huge thanks must go to both Mr Tickner and Miss Swindall for their contribution. Congratulations must also go to the pupils walking who passed their expeditions as well. An album of photos from both the walkers and cyclists can be seen below.

Tom Loveless - Duke of Edinburgh's Award Coordinator