Wednesday, May 10
Dartmoor Wildcamping Access
It was clear that during this trip Dartmoor's weather was just not going to be playing nicely. That's the problem with having to book holiday leave so many weeks in advance.
In theory I potentially had a few days free for wildcamping.
In practise the weather forecast was highly erratic, and had been for most of the week.
And those who know Dartmoor understand how just how unpleasant that can get at times.
But it seemed a pity to bring all the gear without bedding it down ready for the rest of 2023.
Last visit had been a night's wildcamp on Rippon Tor.
All of which has diverted my attention away from my planned trip report to reflect on the recent shitshow over access rights for Dartmoor wildcamping.
For, you see. Rippon Tor, according to the DNPA Access map. is now 'off-limits', and it would be an offence to wildcamp there.
Hmm...
From local Dartmoor contacts I spoke to on this trip, the wildcamping 'ban' enforcement was viewed as being unenforceable on the ground, and hence effectively being ignored.
Particularly by those experienced wildcampers who understand the ethos and how to carry it out on the ground.
Having been involved in an earlier campaign for wildcamping access back in 2008 most of the arguments I'd worked over years ago in much detail. And now, as then, it was clear that without considerable political support, and money, little would change.
[Archives about that campaign can be found here - but here was the final outcome:
"23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament." [By the way - No idea whatever happened to that last point]]
My personal response to that was blogged at the time - and to be honest it remains an approach I would take today if I feel the desire to do so.
Coming up to date....
The post covid camping/party madness on Dartmoor (and across the UK) definitely didn't help build support for 'proper' wildcamping access. As I recall some areas of Scotland suffered clampdowns on existing access rights as a result.
Meanwhile DNPA has been drawn into an expensive legal battle that I personally think they are unlikely to win, using limited funds that they really cannot afford to spend, with likely cut backs elsewhere as a result.
But to stand by is also not a good alternative - they are buggered whichever way they turn.
On the plus side its exposed the machinations of one particularly rich and powerful landowner. Well what a shocker!
More positively it has shown the strong community support from other Dartmoor landowners across the area, especially on the military ranges.
Peversely researching this trip I've spent more time poring over the detail of the DNPA Camping Map than I have ever in the past. With the result that I've now spotted some hidden gems in isolated areas, places where before I would never have even considered camping.
When I look in the mirror these days I see that devilish glint starting to look back at me.
It seems to say ...
'You know exactly who is responsible for the infamous court action.
You know precise area of empty moorland that they regard as so vital to protect.
Looks like a fun - lets go visit - I feel a wildcamp a coming on'
So that all worked out wonderfully then!
Labels: dartmoor, E-Petition, E-Petition-Wildcamping, wild camping
Sunday, January 15
Legalise wild camping - Background information
For anyone seeking the Campaign website, I noticed earlier today that its no longer on-line.
However as much of the information there still stands good this link should give you access to a backed-up version.
LEGALISE WILD CAMPING
Wild Camping: The Legalities
Labels: Backpacking Advice, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Thursday, July 1
Dartmoor - Ivyrbridge Railway Station
Well that has taken a damned sight longer than I expected.
But the main thing is that my rail ticket for the imminent Dartmoor wildcamp is booked, paid for, and ready for pick up tomorrow.
One note for anyone considering Ivybridge Rail Station as a jump-off point for its easy access to Dartmoor wanders, especially the Two Moors Way. The frequency of trains stopping at this station has markedly reduced compared to my past jaunts. True it was never the busiest spot. But careful perusal of the train timetable is a real must-do for this year with l-o-n-g two hour gaps between service typical.
And that's if you want to travel during the day. Forget anything outside the typical commuter timetable.
So here's my hint.
Travel direct to Plymouth. Then pick up a local return train from there, or maybe hop a local bus/taxi if you want to avoid hanging around.
The good news? The ticket price is pretty similar to last year.
As for Ivybridge, I wonder how long that particular station, an unmanned one with minimal facilities as it is, will continue to appear on the rail network, despite the money spent in so recent times to bring it back into mainline service.Labels: dartmoor, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Rail
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Thursday, August 28
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Hill Wisdom
Eric Hemery's 'Wilderness Camping in Britain', has been the well-spring from which many of today's thoughts dribbled. For the modern day wildcamper it is an interesting snapshot of wilderness camping 1970s style.
The content was meant for a family based wildcamping experience, and so much of the information now seems out dated, out moded, or at times just plain wrong for a modern sensibility (brushwood open fire, digging a rubbish pit/latrine, water channeling around a tent)
But amongst considerations such as the advantage of 8 or 12oz cotton duck tentage, the enduring spirit of the wildcamper remains audible, nearly forty years after it first appeared; As the preceding posts indicate.
Before returning Hemery's work to the bookshelf, I'd be remiss without summarising a key basic wildcamping skill. It's one that I don't recall seeing in print. One that many of us have come to understand the true benefit of through personal experience.
(Breaking the rules)
Where to pitch the tent:
- Sun: Do not pitch in a north facing valley; South for warmth, ideally pitching slightly east of south to break prevailing rain force and leave the rear of the tent to stand against the wind/rain's force
- Rain: Site in the lee of a hill; If impracticable align ESE-WNW
- Water: Spring water is the most desirable for a supply; Other sources- check before use and be wary of pollutants, usually animal based. But beware stupid humans
- Flooding: Pitch at least 2m above normal water level, where apparent (tidemark/dead vegetation) and allow ample space for drainage water to channel, including that from the tent roof
- Escape Route: Have one. Don't rely on a river ford or a sunken tree lined lane for a return to civilisation; It may not be quite what you expect after a period of heavy rain
- Tent Pitch: Level. Stay out of a depression which holds water during wet weather and excludes a cooling breeze during hot. Only exception - ridge camping during a heatwave when a dip may be the only wind shelter you're likely to get
- Trees: Avoid. Branches drop on an incautious head at the most inconvenient time, especially during a storm. A tendency to continue to drip, long after the rain ceased. Bird droppings will play havoc with tent proofing. Conifers attract horrible small flying bitey things. Wood has a tendency to catch fire far too easily via careless cooking escapades. Especially when its your sole ground covering
- Rocks: Beware pitching where they may fall. Worse case, try to ensure there is some form of overhang protection. But expect to get wet in heavy rain when the water finds its quickest way down the rock face. Via your idyllic spot at the foot of a steep cliff
- View: Have a good one, or the best you can get in the circumstances
- Experience: Use; Benefit; Make mistakes; But above all - reflect and learn
(Balance: View v Discomfort?)
Mr H - thank you for the timeless reminders, wherever you are wildcamping these days.
For us all, lessons to heed that perhaps some of those things that are sometimes taken for granted. Or just not said out loud as much as they should be?
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 3
Excerpt from the Introduction to 'Wilderness Camping in Britain'
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
It was clear that during this trip Dartmoor's weather was just not going to be playing nicely. That's the problem with having to book holiday leave so many weeks in advance.
In theory I potentially had a few days free for wildcamping.
In practise the weather forecast was highly erratic, and had been for most of the week.
And those who know Dartmoor understand how just how unpleasant that can get at times.
But it seemed a pity to bring all the gear without bedding it down ready for the rest of 2023.
Last visit had been a night's wildcamp on Rippon Tor.
All of which has diverted my attention away from my planned trip report to reflect on the recent shitshow over access rights for Dartmoor wildcamping.
For, you see. Rippon Tor, according to the DNPA Access map. is now 'off-limits', and it would be an offence to wildcamp there.
Hmm...
From local Dartmoor contacts I spoke to on this trip, the wildcamping 'ban' enforcement was viewed as being unenforceable on the ground, and hence effectively being ignored.
Particularly by those experienced wildcampers who understand the ethos and how to carry it out on the ground.
Having been involved in an earlier campaign for wildcamping access back in 2008 most of the arguments I'd worked over years ago in much detail. And now, as then, it was clear that without considerable political support, and money, little would change.
[Archives about that campaign can be found here - but here was the final outcome:
"23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament."
[By the way - No idea whatever happened to that last point]]
My personal response to that was blogged at the time - and to be honest it remains an approach I would take today if I feel the desire to do so.
Coming up to date....
The post covid camping/party madness on Dartmoor (and across the UK) definitely didn't help build support for 'proper' wildcamping access. As I recall some areas of Scotland suffered clampdowns on existing access rights as a result.
Meanwhile DNPA has been drawn into an expensive legal battle that I personally think they are unlikely to win, using limited funds that they really cannot afford to spend, with likely cut backs elsewhere as a result.
But to stand by is also not a good alternative - they are buggered whichever way they turn.
On the plus side its exposed the machinations of one particularly rich and powerful landowner. Well what a shocker!
More positively it has shown the strong community support from other Dartmoor landowners across the area, especially on the military ranges.
Peversely researching this trip I've spent more time poring over the detail of the DNPA Camping Map than I have ever in the past. With the result that I've now spotted some hidden gems in isolated areas, places where before I would never have even considered camping.
When I look in the mirror these days I see that devilish glint starting to look back at me.
It seems to say ...
'You know exactly who is responsible for the infamous court action.
You know precise area of empty moorland that they regard as so vital to protect.
Looks like a fun - lets go visit - I feel a wildcamp a coming on'
So that all worked out wonderfully then!
Labels: dartmoor, E-Petition, E-Petition-Wildcamping, wild camping
Legalise wild camping - Background information
For anyone seeking the Campaign website, I noticed earlier today that its no longer on-line.
However as much of the information there still stands good this link should give you access to a backed-up version.
LEGALISE WILD CAMPING
Wild Camping: The Legalities
Labels: Backpacking Advice, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Thursday, July 1
Dartmoor - Ivyrbridge Railway Station
Well that has taken a damned sight longer than I expected.
But the main thing is that my rail ticket for the imminent Dartmoor wildcamp is booked, paid for, and ready for pick up tomorrow.
One note for anyone considering Ivybridge Rail Station as a jump-off point for its easy access to Dartmoor wanders, especially the Two Moors Way. The frequency of trains stopping at this station has markedly reduced compared to my past jaunts. True it was never the busiest spot. But careful perusal of the train timetable is a real must-do for this year with l-o-n-g two hour gaps between service typical.
And that's if you want to travel during the day. Forget anything outside the typical commuter timetable.
So here's my hint.
Travel direct to Plymouth. Then pick up a local return train from there, or maybe hop a local bus/taxi if you want to avoid hanging around.
The good news? The ticket price is pretty similar to last year.
As for Ivybridge, I wonder how long that particular station, an unmanned one with minimal facilities as it is, will continue to appear on the rail network, despite the money spent in so recent times to bring it back into mainline service.Labels: dartmoor, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Rail
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Thursday, August 28
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Hill Wisdom
Eric Hemery's 'Wilderness Camping in Britain', has been the well-spring from which many of today's thoughts dribbled. For the modern day wildcamper it is an interesting snapshot of wilderness camping 1970s style.
The content was meant for a family based wildcamping experience, and so much of the information now seems out dated, out moded, or at times just plain wrong for a modern sensibility (brushwood open fire, digging a rubbish pit/latrine, water channeling around a tent)
But amongst considerations such as the advantage of 8 or 12oz cotton duck tentage, the enduring spirit of the wildcamper remains audible, nearly forty years after it first appeared; As the preceding posts indicate.
Before returning Hemery's work to the bookshelf, I'd be remiss without summarising a key basic wildcamping skill. It's one that I don't recall seeing in print. One that many of us have come to understand the true benefit of through personal experience.
(Breaking the rules)
Where to pitch the tent:
- Sun: Do not pitch in a north facing valley; South for warmth, ideally pitching slightly east of south to break prevailing rain force and leave the rear of the tent to stand against the wind/rain's force
- Rain: Site in the lee of a hill; If impracticable align ESE-WNW
- Water: Spring water is the most desirable for a supply; Other sources- check before use and be wary of pollutants, usually animal based. But beware stupid humans
- Flooding: Pitch at least 2m above normal water level, where apparent (tidemark/dead vegetation) and allow ample space for drainage water to channel, including that from the tent roof
- Escape Route: Have one. Don't rely on a river ford or a sunken tree lined lane for a return to civilisation; It may not be quite what you expect after a period of heavy rain
- Tent Pitch: Level. Stay out of a depression which holds water during wet weather and excludes a cooling breeze during hot. Only exception - ridge camping during a heatwave when a dip may be the only wind shelter you're likely to get
- Trees: Avoid. Branches drop on an incautious head at the most inconvenient time, especially during a storm. A tendency to continue to drip, long after the rain ceased. Bird droppings will play havoc with tent proofing. Conifers attract horrible small flying bitey things. Wood has a tendency to catch fire far too easily via careless cooking escapades. Especially when its your sole ground covering
- Rocks: Beware pitching where they may fall. Worse case, try to ensure there is some form of overhang protection. But expect to get wet in heavy rain when the water finds its quickest way down the rock face. Via your idyllic spot at the foot of a steep cliff
- View: Have a good one, or the best you can get in the circumstances
- Experience: Use; Benefit; Make mistakes; But above all - reflect and learn
(Balance: View v Discomfort?)
Mr H - thank you for the timeless reminders, wherever you are wildcamping these days.
For us all, lessons to heed that perhaps some of those things that are sometimes taken for granted. Or just not said out loud as much as they should be?
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 3
Excerpt from the Introduction to 'Wilderness Camping in Britain'
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
However as much of the information there still stands good this link should give you access to a backed-up version.
LEGALISE WILD CAMPING
Wild Camping: The Legalities
Labels: Backpacking Advice, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Dartmoor - Ivyrbridge Railway Station
Well that has taken a damned sight longer than I expected.
But the main thing is that my rail ticket for the imminent Dartmoor wildcamp is booked, paid for, and ready for pick up tomorrow.
One note for anyone considering Ivybridge Rail Station as a jump-off point for its easy access to Dartmoor wanders, especially the Two Moors Way. The frequency of trains stopping at this station has markedly reduced compared to my past jaunts. True it was never the busiest spot. But careful perusal of the train timetable is a real must-do for this year with l-o-n-g two hour gaps between service typical.
And that's if you want to travel during the day. Forget anything outside the typical commuter timetable.
So here's my hint.
Travel direct to Plymouth. Then pick up a local return train from there, or maybe hop a local bus/taxi if you want to avoid hanging around.
The good news? The ticket price is pretty similar to last year.
As for Ivybridge, I wonder how long that particular station, an unmanned one with minimal facilities as it is, will continue to appear on the rail network, despite the money spent in so recent times to bring it back into mainline service.Labels: dartmoor, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Rail
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Thursday, August 28
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Hill Wisdom
Eric Hemery's 'Wilderness Camping in Britain', has been the well-spring from which many of today's thoughts dribbled. For the modern day wildcamper it is an interesting snapshot of wilderness camping 1970s style.
The content was meant for a family based wildcamping experience, and so much of the information now seems out dated, out moded, or at times just plain wrong for a modern sensibility (brushwood open fire, digging a rubbish pit/latrine, water channeling around a tent)
But amongst considerations such as the advantage of 8 or 12oz cotton duck tentage, the enduring spirit of the wildcamper remains audible, nearly forty years after it first appeared; As the preceding posts indicate.
Before returning Hemery's work to the bookshelf, I'd be remiss without summarising a key basic wildcamping skill. It's one that I don't recall seeing in print. One that many of us have come to understand the true benefit of through personal experience.
(Breaking the rules)
Where to pitch the tent:
- Sun: Do not pitch in a north facing valley; South for warmth, ideally pitching slightly east of south to break prevailing rain force and leave the rear of the tent to stand against the wind/rain's force
- Rain: Site in the lee of a hill; If impracticable align ESE-WNW
- Water: Spring water is the most desirable for a supply; Other sources- check before use and be wary of pollutants, usually animal based. But beware stupid humans
- Flooding: Pitch at least 2m above normal water level, where apparent (tidemark/dead vegetation) and allow ample space for drainage water to channel, including that from the tent roof
- Escape Route: Have one. Don't rely on a river ford or a sunken tree lined lane for a return to civilisation; It may not be quite what you expect after a period of heavy rain
- Tent Pitch: Level. Stay out of a depression which holds water during wet weather and excludes a cooling breeze during hot. Only exception - ridge camping during a heatwave when a dip may be the only wind shelter you're likely to get
- Trees: Avoid. Branches drop on an incautious head at the most inconvenient time, especially during a storm. A tendency to continue to drip, long after the rain ceased. Bird droppings will play havoc with tent proofing. Conifers attract horrible small flying bitey things. Wood has a tendency to catch fire far too easily via careless cooking escapades. Especially when its your sole ground covering
- Rocks: Beware pitching where they may fall. Worse case, try to ensure there is some form of overhang protection. But expect to get wet in heavy rain when the water finds its quickest way down the rock face. Via your idyllic spot at the foot of a steep cliff
- View: Have a good one, or the best you can get in the circumstances
- Experience: Use; Benefit; Make mistakes; But above all - reflect and learn
(Balance: View v Discomfort?)
Mr H - thank you for the timeless reminders, wherever you are wildcamping these days.
For us all, lessons to heed that perhaps some of those things that are sometimes taken for granted. Or just not said out loud as much as they should be?
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 3
Excerpt from the Introduction to 'Wilderness Camping in Britain'
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
But the main thing is that my rail ticket for the imminent Dartmoor wildcamp is booked, paid for, and ready for pick up tomorrow.
One note for anyone considering Ivybridge Rail Station as a jump-off point for its easy access to Dartmoor wanders, especially the Two Moors Way. The frequency of trains stopping at this station has markedly reduced compared to my past jaunts. True it was never the busiest spot. But careful perusal of the train timetable is a real must-do for this year with l-o-n-g two hour gaps between service typical.
And that's if you want to travel during the day. Forget anything outside the typical commuter timetable.
So here's my hint.
Travel direct to Plymouth. Then pick up a local return train from there, or maybe hop a local bus/taxi if you want to avoid hanging around.
The good news? The ticket price is pretty similar to last year.
As for Ivybridge, I wonder how long that particular station, an unmanned one with minimal facilities as it is, will continue to appear on the rail network, despite the money spent in so recent times to bring it back into mainline service.
Labels: dartmoor, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Rail
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Thursday, August 28
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Hill Wisdom
Eric Hemery's 'Wilderness Camping in Britain', has been the well-spring from which many of today's thoughts dribbled. For the modern day wildcamper it is an interesting snapshot of wilderness camping 1970s style.
The content was meant for a family based wildcamping experience, and so much of the information now seems out dated, out moded, or at times just plain wrong for a modern sensibility (brushwood open fire, digging a rubbish pit/latrine, water channeling around a tent)
But amongst considerations such as the advantage of 8 or 12oz cotton duck tentage, the enduring spirit of the wildcamper remains audible, nearly forty years after it first appeared; As the preceding posts indicate.
Before returning Hemery's work to the bookshelf, I'd be remiss without summarising a key basic wildcamping skill. It's one that I don't recall seeing in print. One that many of us have come to understand the true benefit of through personal experience.
(Breaking the rules)
Where to pitch the tent:
- Sun: Do not pitch in a north facing valley; South for warmth, ideally pitching slightly east of south to break prevailing rain force and leave the rear of the tent to stand against the wind/rain's force
- Rain: Site in the lee of a hill; If impracticable align ESE-WNW
- Water: Spring water is the most desirable for a supply; Other sources- check before use and be wary of pollutants, usually animal based. But beware stupid humans
- Flooding: Pitch at least 2m above normal water level, where apparent (tidemark/dead vegetation) and allow ample space for drainage water to channel, including that from the tent roof
- Escape Route: Have one. Don't rely on a river ford or a sunken tree lined lane for a return to civilisation; It may not be quite what you expect after a period of heavy rain
- Tent Pitch: Level. Stay out of a depression which holds water during wet weather and excludes a cooling breeze during hot. Only exception - ridge camping during a heatwave when a dip may be the only wind shelter you're likely to get
- Trees: Avoid. Branches drop on an incautious head at the most inconvenient time, especially during a storm. A tendency to continue to drip, long after the rain ceased. Bird droppings will play havoc with tent proofing. Conifers attract horrible small flying bitey things. Wood has a tendency to catch fire far too easily via careless cooking escapades. Especially when its your sole ground covering
- Rocks: Beware pitching where they may fall. Worse case, try to ensure there is some form of overhang protection. But expect to get wet in heavy rain when the water finds its quickest way down the rock face. Via your idyllic spot at the foot of a steep cliff
- View: Have a good one, or the best you can get in the circumstances
- Experience: Use; Benefit; Make mistakes; But above all - reflect and learn
(Balance: View v Discomfort?)
Mr H - thank you for the timeless reminders, wherever you are wildcamping these days.
For us all, lessons to heed that perhaps some of those things that are sometimes taken for granted. Or just not said out loud as much as they should be?
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 3
Excerpt from the Introduction to 'Wilderness Camping in Britain'
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Thursday, August 28
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Hill Wisdom
Eric Hemery's 'Wilderness Camping in Britain', has been the well-spring from which many of today's thoughts dribbled. For the modern day wildcamper it is an interesting snapshot of wilderness camping 1970s style.
The content was meant for a family based wildcamping experience, and so much of the information now seems out dated, out moded, or at times just plain wrong for a modern sensibility (brushwood open fire, digging a rubbish pit/latrine, water channeling around a tent)
But amongst considerations such as the advantage of 8 or 12oz cotton duck tentage, the enduring spirit of the wildcamper remains audible, nearly forty years after it first appeared; As the preceding posts indicate.
Before returning Hemery's work to the bookshelf, I'd be remiss without summarising a key basic wildcamping skill. It's one that I don't recall seeing in print. One that many of us have come to understand the true benefit of through personal experience.
(Breaking the rules)
Where to pitch the tent:
- Sun: Do not pitch in a north facing valley; South for warmth, ideally pitching slightly east of south to break prevailing rain force and leave the rear of the tent to stand against the wind/rain's force
- Rain: Site in the lee of a hill; If impracticable align ESE-WNW
- Water: Spring water is the most desirable for a supply; Other sources- check before use and be wary of pollutants, usually animal based. But beware stupid humans
- Flooding: Pitch at least 2m above normal water level, where apparent (tidemark/dead vegetation) and allow ample space for drainage water to channel, including that from the tent roof
- Escape Route: Have one. Don't rely on a river ford or a sunken tree lined lane for a return to civilisation; It may not be quite what you expect after a period of heavy rain
- Tent Pitch: Level. Stay out of a depression which holds water during wet weather and excludes a cooling breeze during hot. Only exception - ridge camping during a heatwave when a dip may be the only wind shelter you're likely to get
- Trees: Avoid. Branches drop on an incautious head at the most inconvenient time, especially during a storm. A tendency to continue to drip, long after the rain ceased. Bird droppings will play havoc with tent proofing. Conifers attract horrible small flying bitey things. Wood has a tendency to catch fire far too easily via careless cooking escapades. Especially when its your sole ground covering
- Rocks: Beware pitching where they may fall. Worse case, try to ensure there is some form of overhang protection. But expect to get wet in heavy rain when the water finds its quickest way down the rock face. Via your idyllic spot at the foot of a steep cliff
- View: Have a good one, or the best you can get in the circumstances
- Experience: Use; Benefit; Make mistakes; But above all - reflect and learn
(Balance: View v Discomfort?)
Mr H - thank you for the timeless reminders, wherever you are wildcamping these days.
For us all, lessons to heed that perhaps some of those things that are sometimes taken for granted. Or just not said out loud as much as they should be?
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 3
Excerpt from the Introduction to 'Wilderness Camping in Britain'
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.
Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Thursday, August 28
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Hill Wisdom
Eric Hemery's 'Wilderness Camping in Britain', has been the well-spring from which many of today's thoughts dribbled. For the modern day wildcamper it is an interesting snapshot of wilderness camping 1970s style.
The content was meant for a family based wildcamping experience, and so much of the information now seems out dated, out moded, or at times just plain wrong for a modern sensibility (brushwood open fire, digging a rubbish pit/latrine, water channeling around a tent)
But amongst considerations such as the advantage of 8 or 12oz cotton duck tentage, the enduring spirit of the wildcamper remains audible, nearly forty years after it first appeared; As the preceding posts indicate.
Before returning Hemery's work to the bookshelf, I'd be remiss without summarising a key basic wildcamping skill. It's one that I don't recall seeing in print. One that many of us have come to understand the true benefit of through personal experience.
(Breaking the rules)
Where to pitch the tent:
- Sun: Do not pitch in a north facing valley; South for warmth, ideally pitching slightly east of south to break prevailing rain force and leave the rear of the tent to stand against the wind/rain's force
- Rain: Site in the lee of a hill; If impracticable align ESE-WNW
- Water: Spring water is the most desirable for a supply; Other sources- check before use and be wary of pollutants, usually animal based. But beware stupid humans
- Flooding: Pitch at least 2m above normal water level, where apparent (tidemark/dead vegetation) and allow ample space for drainage water to channel, including that from the tent roof
- Escape Route: Have one. Don't rely on a river ford or a sunken tree lined lane for a return to civilisation; It may not be quite what you expect after a period of heavy rain
- Tent Pitch: Level. Stay out of a depression which holds water during wet weather and excludes a cooling breeze during hot. Only exception - ridge camping during a heatwave when a dip may be the only wind shelter you're likely to get
- Trees: Avoid. Branches drop on an incautious head at the most inconvenient time, especially during a storm. A tendency to continue to drip, long after the rain ceased. Bird droppings will play havoc with tent proofing. Conifers attract horrible small flying bitey things. Wood has a tendency to catch fire far too easily via careless cooking escapades. Especially when its your sole ground covering
- Rocks: Beware pitching where they may fall. Worse case, try to ensure there is some form of overhang protection. But expect to get wet in heavy rain when the water finds its quickest way down the rock face. Via your idyllic spot at the foot of a steep cliff
- View: Have a good one, or the best you can get in the circumstances
- Experience: Use; Benefit; Make mistakes; But above all - reflect and learn
(Balance: View v Discomfort?)
Mr H - thank you for the timeless reminders, wherever you are wildcamping these days.
For us all, lessons to heed that perhaps some of those things that are sometimes taken for granted. Or just not said out loud as much as they should be?
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 3
Excerpt from the Introduction to 'Wilderness Camping in Britain'
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & links
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Hill Wisdom
Eric Hemery's 'Wilderness Camping in Britain', has been the well-spring from which many of today's thoughts dribbled. For the modern day wildcamper it is an interesting snapshot of wilderness camping 1970s style.
The content was meant for a family based wildcamping experience, and so much of the information now seems out dated, out moded, or at times just plain wrong for a modern sensibility (brushwood open fire, digging a rubbish pit/latrine, water channeling around a tent)
But amongst considerations such as the advantage of 8 or 12oz cotton duck tentage, the enduring spirit of the wildcamper remains audible, nearly forty years after it first appeared; As the preceding posts indicate.
Before returning Hemery's work to the bookshelf, I'd be remiss without summarising a key basic wildcamping skill. It's one that I don't recall seeing in print. One that many of us have come to understand the true benefit of through personal experience.
(Breaking the rules)
Where to pitch the tent:
- Sun: Do not pitch in a north facing valley; South for warmth, ideally pitching slightly east of south to break prevailing rain force and leave the rear of the tent to stand against the wind/rain's force
- Rain: Site in the lee of a hill; If impracticable align ESE-WNW
- Water: Spring water is the most desirable for a supply; Other sources- check before use and be wary of pollutants, usually animal based. But beware stupid humans
- Flooding: Pitch at least 2m above normal water level, where apparent (tidemark/dead vegetation) and allow ample space for drainage water to channel, including that from the tent roof
- Escape Route: Have one. Don't rely on a river ford or a sunken tree lined lane for a return to civilisation; It may not be quite what you expect after a period of heavy rain
- Tent Pitch: Level. Stay out of a depression which holds water during wet weather and excludes a cooling breeze during hot. Only exception - ridge camping during a heatwave when a dip may be the only wind shelter you're likely to get
- Trees: Avoid. Branches drop on an incautious head at the most inconvenient time, especially during a storm. A tendency to continue to drip, long after the rain ceased. Bird droppings will play havoc with tent proofing. Conifers attract horrible small flying bitey things. Wood has a tendency to catch fire far too easily via careless cooking escapades. Especially when its your sole ground covering
- Rocks: Beware pitching where they may fall. Worse case, try to ensure there is some form of overhang protection. But expect to get wet in heavy rain when the water finds its quickest way down the rock face. Via your idyllic spot at the foot of a steep cliff
- View: Have a good one, or the best you can get in the circumstances
- Experience: Use; Benefit; Make mistakes; But above all - reflect and learn
(Balance: View v Discomfort?)
Mr H - thank you for the timeless reminders, wherever you are wildcamping these days.
For us all, lessons to heed that perhaps some of those things that are sometimes taken for granted. Or just not said out loud as much as they should be?
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 3
Excerpt from the Introduction to 'Wilderness Camping in Britain'
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
The content was meant for a family based wildcamping experience, and so much of the information now seems out dated, out moded, or at times just plain wrong for a modern sensibility (brushwood open fire, digging a rubbish pit/latrine, water channeling around a tent)
But amongst considerations such as the advantage of 8 or 12oz cotton duck tentage, the enduring spirit of the wildcamper remains audible, nearly forty years after it first appeared; As the preceding posts indicate.
Before returning Hemery's work to the bookshelf, I'd be remiss without summarising a key basic wildcamping skill. It's one that I don't recall seeing in print. One that many of us have come to understand the true benefit of through personal experience.
(Breaking the rules)Where to pitch the tent:
- Sun: Do not pitch in a north facing valley; South for warmth, ideally pitching slightly east of south to break prevailing rain force and leave the rear of the tent to stand against the wind/rain's force
- Rain: Site in the lee of a hill; If impracticable align ESE-WNW
- Water: Spring water is the most desirable for a supply; Other sources- check before use and be wary of pollutants, usually animal based. But beware stupid humans
- Flooding: Pitch at least 2m above normal water level, where apparent (tidemark/dead vegetation) and allow ample space for drainage water to channel, including that from the tent roof
- Escape Route: Have one. Don't rely on a river ford or a sunken tree lined lane for a return to civilisation; It may not be quite what you expect after a period of heavy rain
- Tent Pitch: Level. Stay out of a depression which holds water during wet weather and excludes a cooling breeze during hot. Only exception - ridge camping during a heatwave when a dip may be the only wind shelter you're likely to get
- Trees: Avoid. Branches drop on an incautious head at the most inconvenient time, especially during a storm. A tendency to continue to drip, long after the rain ceased. Bird droppings will play havoc with tent proofing. Conifers attract horrible small flying bitey things. Wood has a tendency to catch fire far too easily via careless cooking escapades. Especially when its your sole ground covering
- Rocks: Beware pitching where they may fall. Worse case, try to ensure there is some form of overhang protection. But expect to get wet in heavy rain when the water finds its quickest way down the rock face. Via your idyllic spot at the foot of a steep cliff
- View: Have a good one, or the best you can get in the circumstances
- Experience: Use; Benefit; Make mistakes; But above all - reflect and learn
(Balance: View v Discomfort?)Mr H - thank you for the timeless reminders, wherever you are wildcamping these days.
For us all, lessons to heed that perhaps some of those things that are sometimes taken for granted. Or just not said out loud as much as they should be?
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 3
Excerpt from the Introduction to 'Wilderness Camping in Britain'
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
"The best introduction to camping in the wilderness is to go out and try it......As experience teaches and deepens understanding of the problems involved there will come the longing to lose one's self .... not merely for weekends but for weeks on end in remoteness from the aptly styled 'rat race' of life, a remoteness which stirs the primeval instinct present in - but sadly dormant in - most human beings"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
And yet, some things shouldn't ever change.
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 2
Same book .... similar line of enquiry....
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
"I have suggested to the English Trust that serious campers might, on producing evidence of experience and responsibility, be granted passes for camping on certain Trust lands. I realise that such a scheme would raise difficulties, but they should not be formidable, and I remain hopeful that this suggestion might eventually receive serious consideration"
© Eric Hemery: Wilderness Camping in Britain 1970
That was 38 years ago. Seems some things just don't change. Perhaps.
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wild Camp - As old as the hills : Part 1
A throw away chapter introduction found in a '70s wilderness camping book. A few minutes search with Google. And hey presto ..... a benediction from a recognised and aged source.
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-) Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wednesday, August 20
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Perhaps.
Genesis 12:8
From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east (two of his mates, surely?)
Exodus 26:14
And you shall make for the tent a covering of tanned rams' skins and a covering of goatskins on top (lightweight - exodus style)
Oh and there's 306 references for 'tent' and 17 references for 'wild camp'.
So that's one line of defence sorted. Reckon it will stand up in a court of law?
Oh I'm so going to fry somewhere hot & subterranean one day!
;-)
Labels: books, E-Petition-Wildcamping
E-Petition News?
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Saturday, July 26
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
And a Akto tent in the back garden as well then?
Mr Clarkson was said to be unavailable for comment during his extended caravaning holiday, in Birmingham.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Blog - Birthday, Backpacking & Belief
Back in 2006, as I was part way through my usual Summer pattern of wildcamping and backpacking forays, something sparked me up to start this blog, in an attempt to express this feeling somewhere deep inside of myself.
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
Now that's not being arrogant. At least its not my intention. Call it a personal view, a personal history if you like, of progress during the last two years.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Tuesday, July 22
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
On the second anniversary of this Blog I reread that first post to see if my thoughts had shifted in the two years since it started.
That deep driving force remains true, but there has also been some positive changes as a result of that decision take two years ago. And an indirect fall-out, the sense of enforced responsibility with a slow realisation that what appears on here may possibly influence others, dependant on what message they chose to take away from their visit.
Originally the Blog was a way to supplement my usual walking diaries, that I still keep, but to embellish the short handwritten notes with photos and reference links.
My pile of diaries, scribbled in small notebooks in the tent each evening with a stub of a pencil, provided route details, places enjoyed, ideas for future trips, and pitches noted along the way, to return to maybe. Most importantly it left little factually based reminders to myself for the future. Kit to try out, modify or discard. Different ideas or approaches to help improve what I enjoy doing. Especially potential wildcamp spots to follow up (Even now I seem to spend a walk, whatever the location, automatically mentally noting potential sites)
At the time UK based blogs were few and far between, and certainly in single figures. There were a number of walking websites, but with the exception of Backpacking In Britain few related to my specialised interest. Or suitable for a two way communication of interests and ideas.
I felt I had some experiences of my own way to offer, after a number of years of basically learning mostly by personal trial and error. This had been supplemented by the occasional group "camp out" in the wilds, soon abandoned as I quickly realised that the general 'walker' in my geographical location just didn't get "It". That kick deep inside I still get on waking up in a lonely wildcamp location; A day's walk ahead; Carrying my essential amenities on my back. To see things few others know exist. And to survive, nay prosper, in the basic natural environment that can at times be downright hostile and dangerous. Nature & the Outdoors away from the cities. My version of Real Life.
My only source of new ideas and challenges came via digging into the few backpacking books available relating to the UK itself, and keeping an eye on the outdoor magazines.
For whilst those in the traditional outdoor pursuit areas such as the Lakes, or Peak District, may take their introduction and education to the Great Outdoors in their stride, those of us outside these localities don't have that benefit. Finding like minded people, or even places, to follow this calling were rare.
I also understood, and still do, that experience only become wisdom by listening to others, learning from my own trial, and applying the particular lesson in a way that works best for me.
If my site statistics are to be believed, two years on this blog has had over 34,000 visitors. Each day around hundred new people arrive to look over it, some stay, many move on, but a hard core of repeat visitors return again and again, and join in to share their own experiences, comment on my own, or offer some alternative thoughts.
And at each Blog anniversary I'm surprised to find that these numbers keep increasing by around a 50% increase each year (At this rate if I keep this up until I'm 102 I'll have most of the English reading world on here!)
But the stats, as those involved in this Blogging malarkey know only too well, are of comparative value only. Its not about the numbers, but about the bridges built between those sharing a love of the outdoors, or seeking to explore it further.
Without meaning to sound boastful it may be safe to say that without Blogs like this, alongside those early established trail blazers & later arrivals in early in 2007, the outdoor scene would have been slightly different.
- No UK Outdoor Blogger Association to support and advise those interested in the Blog as a way of expressing their own take on the UK Outdoor walking and wildcamping scene.
- No coming together of people from across the UK and beyond for regular meet-ups & wildcamps.
- No forming of long term friendships between people who otherwise were unlikely to ever meet.
- No Wild Camping E-Petition Campaign to explore the associated issues for those who were similarly motivated for change.
- And especially no chance for some of us to step outside our personal small insular areas, a circumstance of geography and community. To learn from others, and to teach. To consider different ways, and to adapt our own individual style.
And all a somewhat divergent preamble to the point of my reflections.
Magazines, on-line forums, Blogs and Podcasts share one basic theme. Communication. Mostly a consideration of how we may approach what we do, the kit used, and the methodology concerned.
But for you, the reader or listener on the receiving end, it isn't meant to be a proscriptive set of rules but a never ending discussion of the tools and our use to follow the pursuits that we have chosen. And sometimes that point can be missed amongst all the shiny kit reviews and latest trends.
Whether its ultralight tarp and trail shoe, 80 litre pack and two man canvas tent, or the latest/best/alternative/traditional bit of kit or area ........ it all comes down to one thing which Monty Python put so succinctly:
"Brian: Please, please, please listen! I've got one or two things to say.
Crowd: Tell us! Tell us both of them!
Brian: Look, you've got it all wrong! You don't NEED to follow ME, You don't NEED to follow ANYBODY! You've got to think for your selves! You're ALL individuals!
Crowd: Yes! We're all individuals!
Brian: You're all different!
Crowd: Yes, we ARE all different!
Man in crowd: I'm not...
Crowd: Sch!"
Don't be the Man in the Crowd folks. Or should that be do- confusing. Anyway - soak it all up. Try it out in safety. Take what works. Discard what doesn't. But most of all experiment whilst aware of your own skill and experience levels, and learn from whats available adapting it for what works for you.
Backpacking and wild camping will never be a 'trendy' pursuit amongst the public at large. It tends to attract those with a more individualist streak, possibly even the downright weird at times (names provided for a 'small' handling charge -lol) But its that self driven element that is part of what makes it so satisfying.
Possibly the very worst sort of people to be told what to do. But the most able, I find, to weigh up the good alongside the bad and safely find their own unique path to get more out those special places we visit all too rarely.
Yes. The writer now is not the same individual of two years ago. But one that today gets even more enjoyment, alongside an increasing number of like minded individuals, with benefits that long ago were not even considered.
Now after all that, time to blow out the birthday cake candles.
Phew!
Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, books, E-Petition-Wildcamping, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Wildcamp E-Petition: MP Response
More to say on this presently....
(Click on picture to view)
As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Tuesday, July 15
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
(Click on picture to view)As you can see, more or less the wording used on the offical response to the E-Petition.
For some reason this topic didn't arise over the past weekend. No idea why that was - but definitely unfinished business.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Legalise Wild Camping - Magazine Monitoring
With the conclusion of Phase One of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign there's been much interest in what would appear in the Outdoor print media. Unfortunately their lead time constraint, usually 2-3 months in the worse cases, doesn't seem to allow any comment on the outcome of the E-Petition. Well not as yet.
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Tuesday, June 24
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Those involved or supportive of the activity watch and wait with interest on that one.
An opportunity then for one of my semi-regular glances over some of the main Outdoor mags, whilst things tick over towards future publication dates.
I've recently returned to being a TGO subscriber, tempted by a recent cheap re-subscribe/direct-to-door delivery. And happily the August issue more than lives up to my personal expectations (admittedly high)
I had meant to jot some thoughts down last week, but the vagaries of modern life coupled with errant PC technology meant that time had past. Usually that would mean the idea is put on the spike, the opportunity gone and the timing wrong.
But a week later I still think that August's copy is that well put together that the chance to celebrate something positive really shouldn't be missed.
Roger Smith in his 'Inside Edge' piece offers some pragmatic advice based on his experience with Land Access changes and handling the conflicting interests of the organisations involved. Especially those in the Anti-Access camps.
"Never once did I go into an initial meeting with a confrontational attitude. Instead it was more of a listening exercise. This tends to start the process of creating a sense of mutual respect which you need for successful negotiations" …"You will never get 100% of what you want straight away"
Food for thought as we consider the next phase of the Campaign for Legalisation of Wild Camping in England & Wales.
(We really need a snappier 'badge' for that. How about Legalise-It? Oops perhaps not. But then again…. some of that tactics I recall from that campaign could be quite entertaining. A Hyde Park Camp-In anyone?)
Chris Townsend compares Trail Shoes (what no North Face XCR 'Hedgehog' Chris?) A further demonstration, if one was necessary, of TGO's active policy to constructively involve themselves with the current lightweight gear phenomena.
"Ridges are the essence of what makes hill walking so addictive" writes Andy Stothert. And a resounding cheer from me as One Who Knows the Truth. Most certainly.
Chris T has a second bite of the cherry looking at three season sleeping bags. Regular readers of this blog may recall that my own particular interest in this since the Spring Backpackers Club AGM. That's assuming I ever find one that packs down to the size of my Vango & is of similar weight.
Just a thought - it would be useful to see the packed down size as well in future tests if that’s possible?
Eddy Meechan looks at ultralight bug proof tents with his usual questioning approach.
And then there's Jim Perrin... hmm
I find his style is one that is highly enjoyable, or it just doesn't seem to work. But maybe that’s just me. Having devoured Perrin's book on Don Whillans (highly recommended BTW) I’d since been disappointed with many of the TGO pieces. All a little too 'mystical' for my taste - if that makes any sense to you reading this.
But this month, a piece close to my heart. As one who spends probably 95% of my walks alone, with the exception of the dogs on local jaunts, Perrin's piece on solitude and the hills is a true gem. Worth the magazine cover price alone IMHO.
Buy the August copy of TGO Magazine for your own sanity! Don’t try to speed read it in W H Smiths this month. This is one issue to keep and return to on those occasional dark soul days when as you reach for the waterproofs you find yourself reluctant to step outdoors.
Credit where its due to Cameron and this production team. Here's one happy TGO subscriber this month. Now all you have to do it keep up in the future - easy peasy!
I'd also tried picking up Trail Magazine on a couple of occasions following some on-line feedback as to its content. But for some reason its become scarce around my neck of the woods. As a result the embers of a drawn out Sunday afternoon found me wandering out the local newsagent with the only alternative on offer - the July issue of Country Walking Magazine.
Not one of my regular reads to be honest. I'm certainly not its target audience and find the mag's tone a little too tame. However a couple of reasonable articles on Wild Camping caught my interest. Perhaps a brief walk on the wilder side for the regular readership, but delivered well - aiming to inform and advise the uninitiated.
And then a thought struck me. Well more sort of sidled up and nudged me casually with its elbow.
Perhaps this interest partly reflects the Legalise-It debate during the past months? Indeed the content of one section, summarising Wild Camping and the Law, seemed vaguely familiar in providing a summary of information the campaign had helped clarify (No criticism intended by the way if the journo concerned is reading this - the information is generally available for those prepared to dig)
If indeed the Wild Camping E-Petition has been able to inform and advise public interest to this extent, then that’s a creditable success for all those involved.
And a Big YAA-BOO-SUCKS to certain nay-sayers who couldn't see the point of any of it. And maybe still don't?
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, media, TGO Magazine
Wildcamping E-Petition: A heartfelt response
Somehow it seemed only fitting to mark the government's official response to the petition with a suitable gesture:
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Monday, June 23
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
21:00 I'm writing this somewhere in the New Forest. In the distance I can hear occasional traffic from one foe the National Park's main A roads. By my side a day sack to carry the bare essentials for the night. Cooking gear, brew, food, sleeping and bivy bag.
Laid out before me a small flood valley with a strongly flowing stream, my water for the evening, running from left to right.
The small flies are currently trying to work out quite what I am. Possibly nouvelle cuisine for the evening? Hopefully not as I've set-up far enough away from the water to avoid too much of their attention.
To the west the sun is slowly setting behind the trees on the far horizon.
Before me a large herd of deer, around 20 or so, are peacefully grazing. One magnificent stag occasionally raising his head to check that my presence is not a threat.
21:15 A text message from out of the blue.
A miracle really as I'm only getting one bar signal strength on my mobile. And that whilst lying flat on the ground with my spork raised on high in my left hand.
It's from Darren. I'm considering checking my clothing for more bugs. Of the surveillance type this time.
But talking of bugs........ the midges seem to find my flavour interesting, but not too tasty. All the more reason to roll up another half ounce of old shag smoking tobacco to deter them
21:30 The deer have worked their way quietly back into the edges of the woodland opposite. I'm tempted to get up and track them for a while, but decide not to. After all I'm the visitor in their home. So it would seem impolite to intrude.
21:40 The distinctive sound of a nightjar. A noise unlike anything I've heard before. And incredibly loud. It cuts through the gathering darkness like a knife. Quite a noisy bugger really.
21:50 A couple of deer wander pass about 75 m away as the last of the daytime birds settle down for the night, passing the baton over to a trainee owl, trying out its hoot. And not very well. I've no doubt with some night time practice it will get more fluent.
The nightjar kicks off again to show how it should be done. He's got to go. He's bringing his mates in to compete as well.
22:05 The light is getting too dim to write. Time for the final brew of the night, and then into the bivy bag, sensibly laid out whilst it was still light.
06:00 There is nothing more welcoming in life than waking up early on a cold but sunny morning. Watching the last of the mist hanging over the wetland slowly dissipate. And then lazily removing one arm from the sleeping bag to get the first brew of the day underway.
Now this is what I call breakfast in bed. And I even get to smoke as well.
The night passed mostly uneventful.
For some reason the ponies (of which there are many hereabouts) decided to hold their own dusk chorus. A loud whinnie would come from the distance. To be followed by others from all around the area. A state of affairs that carried on until after 00:30.
That I could live with. But then two of them decided to splash loudly through the stream and then canter within 20 metres of my resting place. A Very Heavy Canter when your head is lying on the ground nearby. It was a little unnerving despite having looked over my immediate surroundings earlier to check out nearby tracks for just this sort of eventuality. But thankfully I'm besides a few stout trees to deter the unexpected 'hoof on the head' situation.
Quite why horses would decide to go for a run in the dark is beyond me!
Pre the dawn chorus most of the owls in the area took it in turns to sound off from their respective territories, before handing over to the day shift. A couple of times during the night I thought I'd heard the yell of a fox deep in the woodland opposite.
07:00 Its too early to find a local hostelry for breakfast. So loading up my pack, I carefully bag all my rubbish, and start walking back towards my car in the strengthening sunlight. As I leave this night's spot I turn to check that all is it should be. Good - no sign of my presence having been there in any way at all.
I pick my way across the boggy grass, slightly surprising the horses as I pass amongst them. Beneath a tree several sunbathing deer, previously unseen, decide to stand, working out whether to move away. I tactfully change my direction to give them some respite before the myriad of tourists arrive later in the day.
People who may never really appreciating just what pleasure there is in settling down to be an integral and accepted part of a natural place. Their loss.
Epilogue:
I'm told my night out was possibly illegal. And almost certainly contrary to whatever draconian laws the newly invest New Forest National Park Authority have drawn up as part of their monopoly.
That's assuming of course that the above is not a fanciful tissue of lies.
So exactly what harm or damage has been done; And who has suffered loss?
Certainly not me, despite the night chorus and equine sleep walking.
The land I shared has already shrugged off my presence.
I drive home peacefully, at one with the world. Watching the grim faced commuters hurrying off to fulfil their personal sense of duty and lawful activity.
So who's the fool here then?
(P.S. This entry also counts as the opening shot in the 2008 Hip-Pack Competition, despite my pack weight being based on whatever I chucked in the pack at short notice)
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, Hip-pack Competition
Wildcamp E-Petition - Government Response
23 June 2008/We received a petition asking:
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link hereLabels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 26
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
"We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to legalise wild camping in England and Wales."
Details of Petition:
"Currently without the landowners concent it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land. It is time to give people the same rights as those given North of the Border in Scotland to allow them to wild camp in these places without threat of legal action."
The Government's response
This Government appreciates the potential benefits of wild camping in England and its attractiveness to campers who already have the opportunity to camp in the wild in Scotland.
The Land Reform Act in Scotland allows for wild camping, but the land issues and the legislation in England are somewhat different. The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.
On open access land wild camping is prohibited under Schedule 2 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which lists all restricted activities. Therefore, new Regulations would be required to exclude wild camping as a restricted activity. Any change to the current rules on wild camping in National Parks and Ministry of Defence land would require new primary legislation.
The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Link here
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Hurray for the TGO Challenge, UKOB Forum & Wild Camp E-Petition
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Friday, May 16
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Hearty congratulations are in order..........
Well done to those TGO Challengers who successfully finished last week. And in particular to one individual for whom I know completion this year was something truly special; And personal.
Well done also to the Outdoor Bloggers Forum, one year old last Saturday. Well a year and a few months to be accurate, but put the preceding months down to a bedding in phase.
And finally well done to those who stood up to be counted. That's 2,017 of you who voted for the Wild Camping E-Petition.
If that doesn't sound that many, then consider the potential number of people who would be interested in the first place. And then balance that against the fact that the E-P closed 389th out of the 13,239 closed petitions (i.e. in the top 3%)
Now what next I wonder? The government's formal response is awaited. And those involved are contemplating their own activity as well.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping, TGO Challenge, UK Outdoors Blogger
Wildcamping, democracy and lobbying an MP
A text message came through to me from home earlier today. Intriguing - a letter had arrived postmarked "House of Commons". Surely not that knighthood invitation for services rendered to the crown? (Of which I'd dearly love to tell you more - but I promised not a word would pass my lips concerning the portaloo/washing soda/super glue incident)
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, May 5
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
It was, of course, a response from my local MP after I drew his attention to the E-Petition Legalise-It (wildcamping) campaign (1,842 votes and rising - thanks for asking)
Looks like Hilary Benn (the minster concerned I think) has been getting regularly reminded about this issue from a number of MPs across the political field.
Well not the Scottish ones obviously. Ahem.
Closing date for voting is 24th May - only 8 days left. So please encourage those you know to rush over to the site link above to help push the total over the 2,000 mark, and move up the ranks from its current position as 68th largest petition.
Labels: E-Petition-Wildcamping
Wildcamping E-Petition & the Outdoor Game of Nations
I was awaiting the end of the Wildcamping E-Petition before aking a long look back over the various activities along the trail. An 'Anatomy of a Campaign' if you like.
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
Monday, April 21
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Something that might be of use for others in the future perhaps.
But today's impassioned post from Darren on the apparent apathy in some public arenas required a early comment.
I'm waiting for the arrival of my copy of 'The Game of Nations' by Miles Copeland. Somehow it seems to be a particularly relevant read at the present time.
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping
aRoundabout - outdoor news and views (April 21)
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work. Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.
Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well. Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
A host of new arrivals on the outdoor blogging scene this time around. So let's get straight to the meat of the piece.
Greg only started his blog,
Backpacking back in April and its already shaping up nicely. Not much more to say as yet. Rather let Greg's posts do the work.Anyone who can give a mention to Colin Fletcher deserves my attention. And not because this site gets a link referral. Ahem. Fenlander over at Step By Step has 40+ years of backpacking experience behind him.
"I’m a walker\backpacker of many (too many) years standing. I started the game in the early ’70’s when packs were huge - my first was a ‘Camp Trails’ external frame with an enormous dayglow orange sack which fixed to the frame with 8 clevis pins. It did have a hip belt - and needed it - and mildly padded shoulder straps. Now I stand on the edge of the lightweight revolution and don’t know whether to jump in or not"
He's now having great fun trying out this new fangled modern gear. A new site and one worth watching.
Two Yards Of Lard over at Beating The Bounds has "a blog about walking, thinking about walking, reading about walking…….and maybe other stuff" The lucky man is within sniffing distance of the Lake District ("a view of the Howgill fells from upstairs windows on a good day") and likes recording the scenes he takes in along the way. One to watch as his blog grows.
Northern Walker " Either outside or online..." is already setting a high standard, especially when considering the sort of gear he uses and why.
Graham meanwhile is due to start his wander along the South West Coast Footpath and My South West Walk is already shaping up as some good reference material for the future. One of my Long Break plans for that happy No-Work-Today phase one day in the future.
I always love the simple approach to things. So this idea to help with canister stove stability for use on uneven surfaces is exactly right. Simple, cheap and easy to use. Jim Wood's Base Camp (An Internet Stop for Wilderness Travelers) site is full of smart D-I-Y kit ideas. And I won't even mention the DIY alcohol stove (damn - typing out loud again)
And finally latest news from the Wildcamping E-Petition (votes currently 1,394) The Campaign Site has details about how to raise the issue with your local MP, with a minimum of effort on your part. As we enter the final month of this phase of the campaign a suitable time to prod those who are in a position to influence these things more directly than we simple voters.Right - that should keep you lot quiet for a bit until the heat wave arrives later this week. Me- I'm off to check my gear in preapration for the Backpackers Meet in the Peak District this weekend. To watch democracy at work I hope; To meet some old friends; And hopefully to make some new ones as well.
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
