Saturday, March 15
NEC Outdoor Show Report - Sat 15 March: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2008 ®
The Cumberland Arms, pleasantly much larger this year, was the venue for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2008 ®
Attendees this year were well up on last. With all of us glad to finally put a face and voice to those we have been in regular contact with over the past year. Old friendships renewed, and new ones formed. Just as it should be.
Us old hands knew what to expect. And the first timers happily got into the swing of things once the initial trepidation of walking up to a group of strange looking people with the classic "Have we met on the Internet?" was surmounted. Tips traded. Backgrounds swapped. And plans for the future compared.
So Hi to (in no particular order)
Podcast Bob, Andy Howell, Duncan, George, Stef & family, Sally & Geoff, Mick & Gayle, Alan Sloman, Charles, Phil, Darren, Martin ( I make that 14 counting me?)
Apologies in advance to whoever I missed - there's sure to be at least one if not more as I gadded in and out of the meet. Once the 'official' photo is available (come on Stef) I hope to post it here. For once we should all be in it. Labels: NEC Outdoors Show, Outdoors Shows, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 18
aRoundabout - outdoor news/views (Feb 18)
Postings on here are a little haphazard at present due to a combination of work pressure, sunny days, and the background activity taking place to support the Wildcamping E-Petition. For me that's a real frustration sat here as I am amongst small piles of post-it notes and part written articles covering such diverse topics as press independence and the UK Outdoor magazine scene, the upcoming NEC Outdoors Show, and of course a few local walks that I promised weeks ago and haven't polished up as yet.
But with current deadlines associated with E-P activity fast approaching, particularly related to 'a little something' for the Outdoor Show in March, each day just doesn’t seem long enough. Well not without cybernetic surgery into a semi-permanent part of damned pc.
And that I'm not prepared to do.
It’s a somewhat perverse lesson to realise that the time spent writing about 'doing' outdoor things can only be found by actually practising them less. A balance that as the days warm up I intend to address well away from this darned keyboard.
And that smooooooooooooth link gets me straight into my first plug:
Lightweight equipment and tent show
After last year's hugely successfully Backpackers Club AGM the club have announced that their 2008 event will be in Ashford-in-the-Water, near Bakewell, in the Peak District on 26th April.
For many of us the 2007 event was very tempting, but the Northumberland location meant travel time for a weekend event was tight if you lived in the south of the UK. This year's venue is more central and has me checking my diary already.
The event plans to once again include a lightweight equipment and tent show to run alongside the Club's annual spring gathering. This will be open to all & entry is free.
A great chance to see lightweight backpacking equipment in the flesh, to meet the people who really use the gear, and the faces behind the specialist companies who design and supply it.
More information on the BPC site.
Can you just picture the scene of desolation, with all available deadwood cleared for miles around to fuel the hundred of flickering Bushbuddy cookers?
OM Awards
Meanwhile voting has opened for the Outdoors Magic Awards with the winners to be award their bounty on the 16th of March at the Cumberland Arms Pub. Live from the NEC Outdoors Show.
Well that's if there's anything left of the area if The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2008 ® get a similar friendly reception along the lines of what we received last year. Only kidding folks.
I notice http://www.backpackinglight.co.uk/ appears in the category for "Best Specialist Outdoors Shop" as well as "Best Online Retailer". Its particularly great to see a small independent trader feature alongside such established High Street names such as Cotswold.
Especially given the short life of Podcast Bob's venture and its exclusively web based business. One set up in the face of some commercial disinterest from certain major suppliers.
Good to see Alpkit's innovative approach also rewarded with a nomination in the "Best Online Retailer" as well.
Voting is currently open if you want to take part. (and if you recheck the last couple of paragraphs you may discover a way to vote for both companies if you so desire. Ahem)
OM also has a category for "Best Campsite - Wherever I pitch my tent, that’s my home, but where would you rather pitch your tent?"
- Hollins Farm, Eskdale
- I’d rather be wild camping!
- Fort Augustus
- Langdale
- Wasdale Head NT
(Not saying what I voted for so there!)
And that reminds me............
There was an outburst of podcast activity last weekend. From Podcast Bob's perspective it was heartening to see his efforts over the last couple of the years starting to pull in sponsored shows.
Last time I counted Bob had released over 100 outdoor related podcasts with over 5000,000 downloads. And most podcasts have been researched, recorded, edited and issued at his own personal expense. But all free of charge to the listener, and with a global audience. Hopefully that sponsorship will continue to roll in.
And I can confirm that content and presentation of the material remains unaffected, impartial and as entertaining as ever.
I particularly enjoyed these Cicerone Press shows:
Cicerone
Press - The Book Story
Download MP3 File
Cicerone
Press - Navigation
Download MP3 File
Meanwhile the Outdoor Blogs keep on springing into life…..
A little bit about not a lot "A bit like a Great British jumble sale - it doesn't raise any money, is usually full of old tat nobody wants and very few people turn up"
Early days, but excellent for looking at wildcamping from the viewpoint of someone new to the scene and (thanks for the tip off Darren)
And finally ...........
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2008 ®
The venue has been selected for this year's gathering of the clans. The agenda is already chock full, as you'd naturally expect, with the Wildcamping E-Petition, and arranging the various (highly illegal?) wildcamp meets for 2008.
At this rate we may need our own hall next year for the hordes of adoring groupies.
Oh hang on - that was Fantasy. This is Reality.
Must be the cold weather affecting my mind.
OK, thats it for the present - I'm away to feed the E-P mojo (562 votes and rising) Labels: Backpackers Club - Bellingham Aprl 2007, blog media, podcasts, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, June 21
UK Outdoors Blog Round-up
For those of you who wanted a quick summary of outdoor blog highlights (or low lights - take your pick) it was hosted initially on the Outdoors Magic website.
But following some issues with the approach taken over there, its been languishing over the past month or so.
Podcast Bob has kindly stepped in to offer it room on his pod & vidcast site The Outdoors Station, which is now receiving more of his high quality content following the the TGO Forum's decision to host their own offering and go it alone.
You can find a weekly round-up HERE courtesy of Weird Darren (aka Waterloo Station Gents; 3rd cubicle onthe left; Behind the cistern, - all gifts gratefully received)
Only joking folks.
All content on the site is free and gratis.
And thanks Darren for doing the hard work with pulling the compilation together.
(also added to the links)Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Wednesday, June 6
Wake me up before I Go Go
.....which is not going to be a problem that I forsee.
The forecast is looking good for the weekend. Now can I afford the weight of those sunglasses for the undoubted heatwave about to hit the following week? Or am I just deluding myself?
;-)
Whatever the weather, the break will be welcome; Meeting a select group of people I've spoken with, but in some cases not met.
And commiserations to those that are unable to make it along.
Similar commiserations, in advance, to any univited guests. The hills are free and open and to be enjoyed.
I'm not so feeling so wonderfully democratic in my outlook at the moment.Labels: Trip Planning, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, April 19
UKOB Meet June 2007 - Wildcamps
A teaser for those thinking about the June meet-up, if you've not visted these wildcamp spots before.
Friday night
The spot
The views
Saturday night
The spot
The view
And finally a curio to explore further? (best click/full screen to spot the tarn in question)
From afar....
......a jewel glitters beckoningly
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, April 9
UK Bloggers Meet the Burley Bog Monster
We were into the third hour of walking when we realised we'd hit trouble. Why when travelling over boggy ground is there never a clear cut half way mark? The point at which you can bail out and retrace your tracks staying mostly dryshod. Or at least dryer than you will be in five or maybe ten minutes time.
And if there was such a point, would us gung-ho alpha male outdoor blogger types ever admit it existed?
Naw probably not.
It was around this point my body involuntarily broke into the infamous bog hoppers dance. An attempt to deter gravitational forces by a speed-up in pace, reduce the physical footfall to a theoretical minimum, and propel the body forward to the next likely looking clump of darker coloured grass. Or not as the case may be.
Hop skip jump stagger dash. Splash. Bugger. Repeat the dance and plough on through.
Pausing on a suitably large clump at bogs edge, I turned to look for the five dogs accompanying us. Assorted sizes, all used to this sort of madness, but unaware of the next phase of lunacy that was in store. Bits of most of them were on view. True mostly mud caked, but still all above the marshy ground.
And then there was Weird Darren.
Oh no. Had I inadvertently done away with him? Sucked deep into the notorious New Forest bogs. Another sad statistic that the local tourist office play down 'Well yes sir, we do loose a few people each year but they tend to be mostly the infirm whose families take them off the waymarked paths when their time has come. We try not to publicise it too widely as the bogs do fill up so quickly'
It had all started so well earlier in the day.
An impromptu meet-up with Darren, a stroll on the New Forest, to take the air, shoot the breeze, and walk the dogs. The day dawned misty on the coast, usual for this time of year when the land first heats up quickly, but inland the sun had persisted and blue sky beckoned.
We left Vales Moor car park (OL22: 188 040) throwing in a loop to visit the man-made shelter, whatever it is, and then hitting the main track onto Burbush car park. Trying hard to ignore the mounds of litter bags already piling up at that 'beauty spot', we quickly passed onto the ridge to the north east, heading for Goats Pen, and the sneaky little woodland cut through to come out besides Burley Tea Rooms, where coffee and cake was the order of the day.
Returning along the track leading from Burley to Castle Hill, we paused on the hill to consider the panorama, limited by the distant mist still evident 'damn typical Bank Holiday weather' I guess for the stay adoors in those areas so affected.
Ahead our start point, and our finish. Ten minutes at most beyond the foot of the hill. And it was then we decided to try a detour to miss out the road section. A bit of land, bog terrain to my eyes, but Darren was keen to test out his theories of X socks and lightweight footwear, an earlier dip not proving enough for his stalwart demands.
We later ambled into the vicinity of the car park area, wandering through groups of day trippers and picnickers decked in their summer sun finery. Two mud spattered forms who had lurched out from the lower heathland, accompanied by 5 panting hounds. Both men and dogs equally in need of a serious hose down.
And that terrible sound that will never be forgotten by all who heard it this fateful day.
The steady 'squelch squelch' noise of a man testing lightweight footwear after a particularly cheeky bog crossing session. And the laughter of two people who'd avoided the bank holiday crowds & had a enjoyable time putting the world to rights, whilst out for wander.
Nice one Darren, thanks for a good day out. I still prefer my gore tex and dry feet, but then I'm not the one planning the Scottish trip.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, walks
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 27
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Attendees this year were well up on last. With all of us glad to finally put a face and voice to those we have been in regular contact with over the past year. Old friendships renewed, and new ones formed. Just as it should be.
Us old hands knew what to expect. And the first timers happily got into the swing of things once the initial trepidation of walking up to a group of strange looking people with the classic "Have we met on the Internet?" was surmounted. Tips traded. Backgrounds swapped. And plans for the future compared.
So Hi to (in no particular order)
Podcast Bob, Andy Howell, Duncan, George, Stef & family, Sally & Geoff, Mick & Gayle, Alan Sloman, Charles, Phil, Darren, Martin ( I make that 14 counting me?)
Apologies in advance to whoever I missed - there's sure to be at least one if not more as I gadded in and out of the meet. Once the 'official' photo is available (come on Stef) I hope to post it here. For once we should all be in it.
Labels: NEC Outdoors Show, Outdoors Shows, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
aRoundabout - outdoor news/views (Feb 18)
Postings on here are a little haphazard at present due to a combination of work pressure, sunny days, and the background activity taking place to support the Wildcamping E-Petition. For me that's a real frustration sat here as I am amongst small piles of post-it notes and part written articles covering such diverse topics as press independence and the UK Outdoor magazine scene, the upcoming NEC Outdoors Show, and of course a few local walks that I promised weeks ago and haven't polished up as yet.
But with current deadlines associated with E-P activity fast approaching, particularly related to 'a little something' for the Outdoor Show in March, each day just doesn’t seem long enough. Well not without cybernetic surgery into a semi-permanent part of damned pc.
And that I'm not prepared to do.
It’s a somewhat perverse lesson to realise that the time spent writing about 'doing' outdoor things can only be found by actually practising them less. A balance that as the days warm up I intend to address well away from this darned keyboard.
And that smooooooooooooth link gets me straight into my first plug:
Lightweight equipment and tent show
After last year's hugely successfully Backpackers Club AGM the club have announced that their 2008 event will be in Ashford-in-the-Water, near Bakewell, in the Peak District on 26th April.
For many of us the 2007 event was very tempting, but the Northumberland location meant travel time for a weekend event was tight if you lived in the south of the UK. This year's venue is more central and has me checking my diary already.
The event plans to once again include a lightweight equipment and tent show to run alongside the Club's annual spring gathering. This will be open to all & entry is free.
A great chance to see lightweight backpacking equipment in the flesh, to meet the people who really use the gear, and the faces behind the specialist companies who design and supply it.
More information on the BPC site.
Can you just picture the scene of desolation, with all available deadwood cleared for miles around to fuel the hundred of flickering Bushbuddy cookers?
OM Awards
Meanwhile voting has opened for the Outdoors Magic Awards with the winners to be award their bounty on the 16th of March at the Cumberland Arms Pub. Live from the NEC Outdoors Show.
Well that's if there's anything left of the area if The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2008 ® get a similar friendly reception along the lines of what we received last year. Only kidding folks.
I notice http://www.backpackinglight.co.uk/ appears in the category for "Best Specialist Outdoors Shop" as well as "Best Online Retailer". Its particularly great to see a small independent trader feature alongside such established High Street names such as Cotswold.
Especially given the short life of Podcast Bob's venture and its exclusively web based business. One set up in the face of some commercial disinterest from certain major suppliers.
Good to see Alpkit's innovative approach also rewarded with a nomination in the "Best Online Retailer" as well.
Voting is currently open if you want to take part. (and if you recheck the last couple of paragraphs you may discover a way to vote for both companies if you so desire. Ahem)
OM also has a category for "Best Campsite - Wherever I pitch my tent, that’s my home, but where would you rather pitch your tent?"
- Hollins Farm, Eskdale
- I’d rather be wild camping!
- Fort Augustus
- Langdale
- Wasdale Head NT
(Not saying what I voted for so there!)
And that reminds me............
There was an outburst of podcast activity last weekend. From Podcast Bob's perspective it was heartening to see his efforts over the last couple of the years starting to pull in sponsored shows.
Last time I counted Bob had released over 100 outdoor related podcasts with over 5000,000 downloads. And most podcasts have been researched, recorded, edited and issued at his own personal expense. But all free of charge to the listener, and with a global audience. Hopefully that sponsorship will continue to roll in.
And I can confirm that content and presentation of the material remains unaffected, impartial and as entertaining as ever.
I particularly enjoyed these Cicerone Press shows:
Cicerone
Press - The Book Story
Download MP3 File
Cicerone
Press - Navigation
Download MP3 File
Meanwhile the Outdoor Blogs keep on springing into life…..
A little bit about not a lot "A bit like a Great British jumble sale - it doesn't raise any money, is usually full of old tat nobody wants and very few people turn up"
Early days, but excellent for looking at wildcamping from the viewpoint of someone new to the scene and (thanks for the tip off Darren)
And finally ...........
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2008 ®
The venue has been selected for this year's gathering of the clans. The agenda is already chock full, as you'd naturally expect, with the Wildcamping E-Petition, and arranging the various (highly illegal?) wildcamp meets for 2008.
At this rate we may need our own hall next year for the hordes of adoring groupies.
Oh hang on - that was Fantasy. This is Reality.
Must be the cold weather affecting my mind.
OK, thats it for the present - I'm away to feed the E-P mojo (562 votes and rising) Labels: Backpackers Club - Bellingham Aprl 2007, blog media, podcasts, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, August 6
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, June 21
UK Outdoors Blog Round-up
For those of you who wanted a quick summary of outdoor blog highlights (or low lights - take your pick) it was hosted initially on the Outdoors Magic website.
But following some issues with the approach taken over there, its been languishing over the past month or so.
Podcast Bob has kindly stepped in to offer it room on his pod & vidcast site The Outdoors Station, which is now receiving more of his high quality content following the the TGO Forum's decision to host their own offering and go it alone.
You can find a weekly round-up HERE courtesy of Weird Darren (aka Waterloo Station Gents; 3rd cubicle onthe left; Behind the cistern, - all gifts gratefully received)
Only joking folks.
All content on the site is free and gratis.
And thanks Darren for doing the hard work with pulling the compilation together.
(also added to the links)Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Wednesday, June 6
Wake me up before I Go Go
.....which is not going to be a problem that I forsee.
The forecast is looking good for the weekend. Now can I afford the weight of those sunglasses for the undoubted heatwave about to hit the following week? Or am I just deluding myself?
;-)
Whatever the weather, the break will be welcome; Meeting a select group of people I've spoken with, but in some cases not met.
And commiserations to those that are unable to make it along.
Similar commiserations, in advance, to any univited guests. The hills are free and open and to be enjoyed.
I'm not so feeling so wonderfully democratic in my outlook at the moment.Labels: Trip Planning, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, April 19
UKOB Meet June 2007 - Wildcamps
A teaser for those thinking about the June meet-up, if you've not visted these wildcamp spots before.
Friday night
The spot
The views
Saturday night
The spot
The view
And finally a curio to explore further? (best click/full screen to spot the tarn in question)
From afar....
......a jewel glitters beckoningly
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, April 9
UK Bloggers Meet the Burley Bog Monster
We were into the third hour of walking when we realised we'd hit trouble. Why when travelling over boggy ground is there never a clear cut half way mark? The point at which you can bail out and retrace your tracks staying mostly dryshod. Or at least dryer than you will be in five or maybe ten minutes time.
And if there was such a point, would us gung-ho alpha male outdoor blogger types ever admit it existed?
Naw probably not.
It was around this point my body involuntarily broke into the infamous bog hoppers dance. An attempt to deter gravitational forces by a speed-up in pace, reduce the physical footfall to a theoretical minimum, and propel the body forward to the next likely looking clump of darker coloured grass. Or not as the case may be.
Hop skip jump stagger dash. Splash. Bugger. Repeat the dance and plough on through.
Pausing on a suitably large clump at bogs edge, I turned to look for the five dogs accompanying us. Assorted sizes, all used to this sort of madness, but unaware of the next phase of lunacy that was in store. Bits of most of them were on view. True mostly mud caked, but still all above the marshy ground.
And then there was Weird Darren.
Oh no. Had I inadvertently done away with him? Sucked deep into the notorious New Forest bogs. Another sad statistic that the local tourist office play down 'Well yes sir, we do loose a few people each year but they tend to be mostly the infirm whose families take them off the waymarked paths when their time has come. We try not to publicise it too widely as the bogs do fill up so quickly'
It had all started so well earlier in the day.
An impromptu meet-up with Darren, a stroll on the New Forest, to take the air, shoot the breeze, and walk the dogs. The day dawned misty on the coast, usual for this time of year when the land first heats up quickly, but inland the sun had persisted and blue sky beckoned.
We left Vales Moor car park (OL22: 188 040) throwing in a loop to visit the man-made shelter, whatever it is, and then hitting the main track onto Burbush car park. Trying hard to ignore the mounds of litter bags already piling up at that 'beauty spot', we quickly passed onto the ridge to the north east, heading for Goats Pen, and the sneaky little woodland cut through to come out besides Burley Tea Rooms, where coffee and cake was the order of the day.
Returning along the track leading from Burley to Castle Hill, we paused on the hill to consider the panorama, limited by the distant mist still evident 'damn typical Bank Holiday weather' I guess for the stay adoors in those areas so affected.
Ahead our start point, and our finish. Ten minutes at most beyond the foot of the hill. And it was then we decided to try a detour to miss out the road section. A bit of land, bog terrain to my eyes, but Darren was keen to test out his theories of X socks and lightweight footwear, an earlier dip not proving enough for his stalwart demands.
We later ambled into the vicinity of the car park area, wandering through groups of day trippers and picnickers decked in their summer sun finery. Two mud spattered forms who had lurched out from the lower heathland, accompanied by 5 panting hounds. Both men and dogs equally in need of a serious hose down.
And that terrible sound that will never be forgotten by all who heard it this fateful day.
The steady 'squelch squelch' noise of a man testing lightweight footwear after a particularly cheeky bog crossing session. And the laughter of two people who'd avoided the bank holiday crowds & had a enjoyable time putting the world to rights, whilst out for wander.
Nice one Darren, thanks for a good day out. I still prefer my gore tex and dry feet, but then I'm not the one planning the Scottish trip.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, walks
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 27
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
But with current deadlines associated with E-P activity fast approaching, particularly related to 'a little something' for the Outdoor Show in March, each day just doesn’t seem long enough. Well not without cybernetic surgery into a semi-permanent part of damned pc.
And that I'm not prepared to do.
It’s a somewhat perverse lesson to realise that the time spent writing about 'doing' outdoor things can only be found by actually practising them less. A balance that as the days warm up I intend to address well away from this darned keyboard.
And that smooooooooooooth link gets me straight into my first plug:
Lightweight equipment and tent show
After last year's hugely successfully Backpackers Club AGM the club have announced that their 2008 event will be in Ashford-in-the-Water, near Bakewell, in the Peak District on 26th April.
For many of us the 2007 event was very tempting, but the Northumberland location meant travel time for a weekend event was tight if you lived in the south of the UK. This year's venue is more central and has me checking my diary already.
The event plans to once again include a lightweight equipment and tent show to run alongside the Club's annual spring gathering. This will be open to all & entry is free.
A great chance to see lightweight backpacking equipment in the flesh, to meet the people who really use the gear, and the faces behind the specialist companies who design and supply it.
More information on the BPC site.
Can you just picture the scene of desolation, with all available deadwood cleared for miles around to fuel the hundred of flickering Bushbuddy cookers?
OM Awards
Meanwhile voting has opened for the Outdoors Magic Awards with the winners to be award their bounty on the 16th of March at the Cumberland Arms Pub. Live from the NEC Outdoors Show.
Well that's if there's anything left of the area if The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2008 ® get a similar friendly reception along the lines of what we received last year. Only kidding folks.
I notice http://www.backpackinglight.co.uk/ appears in the category for "Best Specialist Outdoors Shop" as well as "Best Online Retailer". Its particularly great to see a small independent trader feature alongside such established High Street names such as Cotswold.
Especially given the short life of Podcast Bob's venture and its exclusively web based business. One set up in the face of some commercial disinterest from certain major suppliers.
Good to see Alpkit's innovative approach also rewarded with a nomination in the "Best Online Retailer" as well.
Voting is currently open if you want to take part. (and if you recheck the last couple of paragraphs you may discover a way to vote for both companies if you so desire. Ahem)
OM also has a category for "Best Campsite - Wherever I pitch my tent, that’s my home, but where would you rather pitch your tent?"
- Hollins Farm, Eskdale
- I’d rather be wild camping!
- Fort Augustus
- Langdale
- Wasdale Head NT
And that reminds me............
There was an outburst of podcast activity last weekend. From Podcast Bob's perspective it was heartening to see his efforts over the last couple of the years starting to pull in sponsored shows.
Last time I counted Bob had released over 100 outdoor related podcasts with over 5000,000 downloads. And most podcasts have been researched, recorded, edited and issued at his own personal expense. But all free of charge to the listener, and with a global audience. Hopefully that sponsorship will continue to roll in.
And I can confirm that content and presentation of the material remains unaffected, impartial and as entertaining as ever.
I particularly enjoyed these Cicerone Press shows:
Cicerone
Press - The Book Story
Download MP3 File
Press - The Book Story
Download MP3 File
Cicerone
Press - Navigation
Download MP3 File
Press - Navigation
Download MP3 File
Meanwhile the Outdoor Blogs keep on springing into life…..
A little bit about not a lot "A bit like a Great British jumble sale - it doesn't raise any money, is usually full of old tat nobody wants and very few people turn up"
Early days, but excellent for looking at wildcamping from the viewpoint of someone new to the scene and (thanks for the tip off Darren)
And finally ...........
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2008 ®
The venue has been selected for this year's gathering of the clans. The agenda is already chock full, as you'd naturally expect, with the Wildcamping E-Petition, and arranging the various (highly illegal?) wildcamp meets for 2008.
At this rate we may need our own hall next year for the hordes of adoring groupies.
Oh hang on - that was Fantasy. This is Reality.
Must be the cold weather affecting my mind.
OK, thats it for the present - I'm away to feed the E-P mojo (562 votes and rising)
Labels: Backpackers Club - Bellingham Aprl 2007, blog media, podcasts, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Me and my big mouth
Sod's Law will have its little joke, following my spirit rendition about Fitness a few days ago.
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, June 21
UK Outdoors Blog Round-up
For those of you who wanted a quick summary of outdoor blog highlights (or low lights - take your pick) it was hosted initially on the Outdoors Magic website.
But following some issues with the approach taken over there, its been languishing over the past month or so.
Podcast Bob has kindly stepped in to offer it room on his pod & vidcast site The Outdoors Station, which is now receiving more of his high quality content following the the TGO Forum's decision to host their own offering and go it alone.
You can find a weekly round-up HERE courtesy of Weird Darren (aka Waterloo Station Gents; 3rd cubicle onthe left; Behind the cistern, - all gifts gratefully received)
Only joking folks.
All content on the site is free and gratis.
And thanks Darren for doing the hard work with pulling the compilation together.
(also added to the links)Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Wednesday, June 6
Wake me up before I Go Go
.....which is not going to be a problem that I forsee.
The forecast is looking good for the weekend. Now can I afford the weight of those sunglasses for the undoubted heatwave about to hit the following week? Or am I just deluding myself?
;-)
Whatever the weather, the break will be welcome; Meeting a select group of people I've spoken with, but in some cases not met.
And commiserations to those that are unable to make it along.
Similar commiserations, in advance, to any univited guests. The hills are free and open and to be enjoyed.
I'm not so feeling so wonderfully democratic in my outlook at the moment.Labels: Trip Planning, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, April 19
UKOB Meet June 2007 - Wildcamps
A teaser for those thinking about the June meet-up, if you've not visted these wildcamp spots before.
Friday night
The spot
The views
Saturday night
The spot
The view
And finally a curio to explore further? (best click/full screen to spot the tarn in question)
From afar....
......a jewel glitters beckoningly
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, April 9
UK Bloggers Meet the Burley Bog Monster
We were into the third hour of walking when we realised we'd hit trouble. Why when travelling over boggy ground is there never a clear cut half way mark? The point at which you can bail out and retrace your tracks staying mostly dryshod. Or at least dryer than you will be in five or maybe ten minutes time.
And if there was such a point, would us gung-ho alpha male outdoor blogger types ever admit it existed?
Naw probably not.
It was around this point my body involuntarily broke into the infamous bog hoppers dance. An attempt to deter gravitational forces by a speed-up in pace, reduce the physical footfall to a theoretical minimum, and propel the body forward to the next likely looking clump of darker coloured grass. Or not as the case may be.
Hop skip jump stagger dash. Splash. Bugger. Repeat the dance and plough on through.
Pausing on a suitably large clump at bogs edge, I turned to look for the five dogs accompanying us. Assorted sizes, all used to this sort of madness, but unaware of the next phase of lunacy that was in store. Bits of most of them were on view. True mostly mud caked, but still all above the marshy ground.
And then there was Weird Darren.
Oh no. Had I inadvertently done away with him? Sucked deep into the notorious New Forest bogs. Another sad statistic that the local tourist office play down 'Well yes sir, we do loose a few people each year but they tend to be mostly the infirm whose families take them off the waymarked paths when their time has come. We try not to publicise it too widely as the bogs do fill up so quickly'
It had all started so well earlier in the day.
An impromptu meet-up with Darren, a stroll on the New Forest, to take the air, shoot the breeze, and walk the dogs. The day dawned misty on the coast, usual for this time of year when the land first heats up quickly, but inland the sun had persisted and blue sky beckoned.
We left Vales Moor car park (OL22: 188 040) throwing in a loop to visit the man-made shelter, whatever it is, and then hitting the main track onto Burbush car park. Trying hard to ignore the mounds of litter bags already piling up at that 'beauty spot', we quickly passed onto the ridge to the north east, heading for Goats Pen, and the sneaky little woodland cut through to come out besides Burley Tea Rooms, where coffee and cake was the order of the day.
Returning along the track leading from Burley to Castle Hill, we paused on the hill to consider the panorama, limited by the distant mist still evident 'damn typical Bank Holiday weather' I guess for the stay adoors in those areas so affected.
Ahead our start point, and our finish. Ten minutes at most beyond the foot of the hill. And it was then we decided to try a detour to miss out the road section. A bit of land, bog terrain to my eyes, but Darren was keen to test out his theories of X socks and lightweight footwear, an earlier dip not proving enough for his stalwart demands.
We later ambled into the vicinity of the car park area, wandering through groups of day trippers and picnickers decked in their summer sun finery. Two mud spattered forms who had lurched out from the lower heathland, accompanied by 5 panting hounds. Both men and dogs equally in need of a serious hose down.
And that terrible sound that will never be forgotten by all who heard it this fateful day.
The steady 'squelch squelch' noise of a man testing lightweight footwear after a particularly cheeky bog crossing session. And the laughter of two people who'd avoided the bank holiday crowds & had a enjoyable time putting the world to rights, whilst out for wander.
Nice one Darren, thanks for a good day out. I still prefer my gore tex and dry feet, but then I'm not the one planning the Scottish trip.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, walks
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 27
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
A niggling lower back pain has proved a stubborn little distraction over the past week, and finally decided to take up semi-permanent residency. And now I need to think about its presence there's a realisation that it has been twinging for two or maybe even three weeks.
Hhmmm - post Scotland? But like most of these slowly developing complaints (and believe me I complain about things like this!) I can't put my finger on any particular mishap or trigger.
So its off to the chiro once more, and highly likely I'm now a a no show at the upcoming UK Outdoors Bloggers Welsh Meet this weekend.
Curses.
And I recall that the oh so nice Alan Sloman was bringing me my weight in beer. I wonder if he recalls Davenports esteemed service? Now when did that slide quietly out of contemporary life?
Labels: Fitness, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blog Round-up
For those of you who wanted a quick summary of outdoor blog highlights (or low lights - take your pick) it was hosted initially on the Outdoors Magic website.
But following some issues with the approach taken over there, its been languishing over the past month or so.
Podcast Bob has kindly stepped in to offer it room on his pod & vidcast site The Outdoors Station, which is now receiving more of his high quality content following the the TGO Forum's decision to host their own offering and go it alone.
You can find a weekly round-up HERE courtesy of Weird Darren (aka Waterloo Station Gents; 3rd cubicle onthe left; Behind the cistern, - all gifts gratefully received)
Only joking folks.
All content on the site is free and gratis.
And thanks Darren for doing the hard work with pulling the compilation together.
(also added to the links)Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Wednesday, June 6
Wake me up before I Go Go
.....which is not going to be a problem that I forsee.
The forecast is looking good for the weekend. Now can I afford the weight of those sunglasses for the undoubted heatwave about to hit the following week? Or am I just deluding myself?
;-)
Whatever the weather, the break will be welcome; Meeting a select group of people I've spoken with, but in some cases not met.
And commiserations to those that are unable to make it along.
Similar commiserations, in advance, to any univited guests. The hills are free and open and to be enjoyed.
I'm not so feeling so wonderfully democratic in my outlook at the moment.Labels: Trip Planning, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, April 19
UKOB Meet June 2007 - Wildcamps
A teaser for those thinking about the June meet-up, if you've not visted these wildcamp spots before.
Friday night
The spot
The views
Saturday night
The spot
The view
And finally a curio to explore further? (best click/full screen to spot the tarn in question)
From afar....
......a jewel glitters beckoningly
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, April 9
UK Bloggers Meet the Burley Bog Monster
We were into the third hour of walking when we realised we'd hit trouble. Why when travelling over boggy ground is there never a clear cut half way mark? The point at which you can bail out and retrace your tracks staying mostly dryshod. Or at least dryer than you will be in five or maybe ten minutes time.
And if there was such a point, would us gung-ho alpha male outdoor blogger types ever admit it existed?
Naw probably not.
It was around this point my body involuntarily broke into the infamous bog hoppers dance. An attempt to deter gravitational forces by a speed-up in pace, reduce the physical footfall to a theoretical minimum, and propel the body forward to the next likely looking clump of darker coloured grass. Or not as the case may be.
Hop skip jump stagger dash. Splash. Bugger. Repeat the dance and plough on through.
Pausing on a suitably large clump at bogs edge, I turned to look for the five dogs accompanying us. Assorted sizes, all used to this sort of madness, but unaware of the next phase of lunacy that was in store. Bits of most of them were on view. True mostly mud caked, but still all above the marshy ground.
And then there was Weird Darren.
Oh no. Had I inadvertently done away with him? Sucked deep into the notorious New Forest bogs. Another sad statistic that the local tourist office play down 'Well yes sir, we do loose a few people each year but they tend to be mostly the infirm whose families take them off the waymarked paths when their time has come. We try not to publicise it too widely as the bogs do fill up so quickly'
It had all started so well earlier in the day.
An impromptu meet-up with Darren, a stroll on the New Forest, to take the air, shoot the breeze, and walk the dogs. The day dawned misty on the coast, usual for this time of year when the land first heats up quickly, but inland the sun had persisted and blue sky beckoned.
We left Vales Moor car park (OL22: 188 040) throwing in a loop to visit the man-made shelter, whatever it is, and then hitting the main track onto Burbush car park. Trying hard to ignore the mounds of litter bags already piling up at that 'beauty spot', we quickly passed onto the ridge to the north east, heading for Goats Pen, and the sneaky little woodland cut through to come out besides Burley Tea Rooms, where coffee and cake was the order of the day.
Returning along the track leading from Burley to Castle Hill, we paused on the hill to consider the panorama, limited by the distant mist still evident 'damn typical Bank Holiday weather' I guess for the stay adoors in those areas so affected.
Ahead our start point, and our finish. Ten minutes at most beyond the foot of the hill. And it was then we decided to try a detour to miss out the road section. A bit of land, bog terrain to my eyes, but Darren was keen to test out his theories of X socks and lightweight footwear, an earlier dip not proving enough for his stalwart demands.
We later ambled into the vicinity of the car park area, wandering through groups of day trippers and picnickers decked in their summer sun finery. Two mud spattered forms who had lurched out from the lower heathland, accompanied by 5 panting hounds. Both men and dogs equally in need of a serious hose down.
And that terrible sound that will never be forgotten by all who heard it this fateful day.
The steady 'squelch squelch' noise of a man testing lightweight footwear after a particularly cheeky bog crossing session. And the laughter of two people who'd avoided the bank holiday crowds & had a enjoyable time putting the world to rights, whilst out for wander.
Nice one Darren, thanks for a good day out. I still prefer my gore tex and dry feet, but then I'm not the one planning the Scottish trip.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, walks
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 27
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
But following some issues with the approach taken over there, its been languishing over the past month or so.
Podcast Bob has kindly stepped in to offer it room on his pod & vidcast site The Outdoors Station, which is now receiving more of his high quality content following the the TGO Forum's decision to host their own offering and go it alone.
You can find a weekly round-up HERE courtesy of Weird Darren (aka Waterloo Station Gents; 3rd cubicle onthe left; Behind the cistern, - all gifts gratefully received)
Only joking folks.
All content on the site is free and gratis.
And thanks Darren for doing the hard work with pulling the compilation together.
(also added to the links)
Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Wake me up before I Go Go
.....which is not going to be a problem that I forsee.
The forecast is looking good for the weekend. Now can I afford the weight of those sunglasses for the undoubted heatwave about to hit the following week? Or am I just deluding myself?
;-)
Whatever the weather, the break will be welcome; Meeting a select group of people I've spoken with, but in some cases not met.
And commiserations to those that are unable to make it along.
Similar commiserations, in advance, to any univited guests. The hills are free and open and to be enjoyed.
I'm not so feeling so wonderfully democratic in my outlook at the moment.Labels: Trip Planning, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, April 19
UKOB Meet June 2007 - Wildcamps
A teaser for those thinking about the June meet-up, if you've not visted these wildcamp spots before.
Friday night
The spot
The views
Saturday night
The spot
The view
And finally a curio to explore further? (best click/full screen to spot the tarn in question)
From afar....
......a jewel glitters beckoningly
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, April 9
UK Bloggers Meet the Burley Bog Monster
We were into the third hour of walking when we realised we'd hit trouble. Why when travelling over boggy ground is there never a clear cut half way mark? The point at which you can bail out and retrace your tracks staying mostly dryshod. Or at least dryer than you will be in five or maybe ten minutes time.
And if there was such a point, would us gung-ho alpha male outdoor blogger types ever admit it existed?
Naw probably not.
It was around this point my body involuntarily broke into the infamous bog hoppers dance. An attempt to deter gravitational forces by a speed-up in pace, reduce the physical footfall to a theoretical minimum, and propel the body forward to the next likely looking clump of darker coloured grass. Or not as the case may be.
Hop skip jump stagger dash. Splash. Bugger. Repeat the dance and plough on through.
Pausing on a suitably large clump at bogs edge, I turned to look for the five dogs accompanying us. Assorted sizes, all used to this sort of madness, but unaware of the next phase of lunacy that was in store. Bits of most of them were on view. True mostly mud caked, but still all above the marshy ground.
And then there was Weird Darren.
Oh no. Had I inadvertently done away with him? Sucked deep into the notorious New Forest bogs. Another sad statistic that the local tourist office play down 'Well yes sir, we do loose a few people each year but they tend to be mostly the infirm whose families take them off the waymarked paths when their time has come. We try not to publicise it too widely as the bogs do fill up so quickly'
It had all started so well earlier in the day.
An impromptu meet-up with Darren, a stroll on the New Forest, to take the air, shoot the breeze, and walk the dogs. The day dawned misty on the coast, usual for this time of year when the land first heats up quickly, but inland the sun had persisted and blue sky beckoned.
We left Vales Moor car park (OL22: 188 040) throwing in a loop to visit the man-made shelter, whatever it is, and then hitting the main track onto Burbush car park. Trying hard to ignore the mounds of litter bags already piling up at that 'beauty spot', we quickly passed onto the ridge to the north east, heading for Goats Pen, and the sneaky little woodland cut through to come out besides Burley Tea Rooms, where coffee and cake was the order of the day.
Returning along the track leading from Burley to Castle Hill, we paused on the hill to consider the panorama, limited by the distant mist still evident 'damn typical Bank Holiday weather' I guess for the stay adoors in those areas so affected.
Ahead our start point, and our finish. Ten minutes at most beyond the foot of the hill. And it was then we decided to try a detour to miss out the road section. A bit of land, bog terrain to my eyes, but Darren was keen to test out his theories of X socks and lightweight footwear, an earlier dip not proving enough for his stalwart demands.
We later ambled into the vicinity of the car park area, wandering through groups of day trippers and picnickers decked in their summer sun finery. Two mud spattered forms who had lurched out from the lower heathland, accompanied by 5 panting hounds. Both men and dogs equally in need of a serious hose down.
And that terrible sound that will never be forgotten by all who heard it this fateful day.
The steady 'squelch squelch' noise of a man testing lightweight footwear after a particularly cheeky bog crossing session. And the laughter of two people who'd avoided the bank holiday crowds & had a enjoyable time putting the world to rights, whilst out for wander.
Nice one Darren, thanks for a good day out. I still prefer my gore tex and dry feet, but then I'm not the one planning the Scottish trip.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, walks
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 27
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
The forecast is looking good for the weekend. Now can I afford the weight of those sunglasses for the undoubted heatwave about to hit the following week? Or am I just deluding myself?
;-)
Whatever the weather, the break will be welcome; Meeting a select group of people I've spoken with, but in some cases not met.
And commiserations to those that are unable to make it along.
Similar commiserations, in advance, to any univited guests. The hills are free and open and to be enjoyed.
I'm not so feeling so wonderfully democratic in my outlook at the moment.
Labels: Trip Planning, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UKOB Meet June 2007 - Wildcamps
A teaser for those thinking about the June meet-up, if you've not visted these wildcamp spots before.
Friday night
The spot
The views
Saturday night
The spot
The view
And finally a curio to explore further? (best click/full screen to spot the tarn in question)
From afar....
......a jewel glitters beckoningly
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, April 9
UK Bloggers Meet the Burley Bog Monster
We were into the third hour of walking when we realised we'd hit trouble. Why when travelling over boggy ground is there never a clear cut half way mark? The point at which you can bail out and retrace your tracks staying mostly dryshod. Or at least dryer than you will be in five or maybe ten minutes time.
And if there was such a point, would us gung-ho alpha male outdoor blogger types ever admit it existed?
Naw probably not.
It was around this point my body involuntarily broke into the infamous bog hoppers dance. An attempt to deter gravitational forces by a speed-up in pace, reduce the physical footfall to a theoretical minimum, and propel the body forward to the next likely looking clump of darker coloured grass. Or not as the case may be.
Hop skip jump stagger dash. Splash. Bugger. Repeat the dance and plough on through.
Pausing on a suitably large clump at bogs edge, I turned to look for the five dogs accompanying us. Assorted sizes, all used to this sort of madness, but unaware of the next phase of lunacy that was in store. Bits of most of them were on view. True mostly mud caked, but still all above the marshy ground.
And then there was Weird Darren.
Oh no. Had I inadvertently done away with him? Sucked deep into the notorious New Forest bogs. Another sad statistic that the local tourist office play down 'Well yes sir, we do loose a few people each year but they tend to be mostly the infirm whose families take them off the waymarked paths when their time has come. We try not to publicise it too widely as the bogs do fill up so quickly'
It had all started so well earlier in the day.
An impromptu meet-up with Darren, a stroll on the New Forest, to take the air, shoot the breeze, and walk the dogs. The day dawned misty on the coast, usual for this time of year when the land first heats up quickly, but inland the sun had persisted and blue sky beckoned.
We left Vales Moor car park (OL22: 188 040) throwing in a loop to visit the man-made shelter, whatever it is, and then hitting the main track onto Burbush car park. Trying hard to ignore the mounds of litter bags already piling up at that 'beauty spot', we quickly passed onto the ridge to the north east, heading for Goats Pen, and the sneaky little woodland cut through to come out besides Burley Tea Rooms, where coffee and cake was the order of the day.
Returning along the track leading from Burley to Castle Hill, we paused on the hill to consider the panorama, limited by the distant mist still evident 'damn typical Bank Holiday weather' I guess for the stay adoors in those areas so affected.
Ahead our start point, and our finish. Ten minutes at most beyond the foot of the hill. And it was then we decided to try a detour to miss out the road section. A bit of land, bog terrain to my eyes, but Darren was keen to test out his theories of X socks and lightweight footwear, an earlier dip not proving enough for his stalwart demands.
We later ambled into the vicinity of the car park area, wandering through groups of day trippers and picnickers decked in their summer sun finery. Two mud spattered forms who had lurched out from the lower heathland, accompanied by 5 panting hounds. Both men and dogs equally in need of a serious hose down.
And that terrible sound that will never be forgotten by all who heard it this fateful day.
The steady 'squelch squelch' noise of a man testing lightweight footwear after a particularly cheeky bog crossing session. And the laughter of two people who'd avoided the bank holiday crowds & had a enjoyable time putting the world to rights, whilst out for wander.
Nice one Darren, thanks for a good day out. I still prefer my gore tex and dry feet, but then I'm not the one planning the Scottish trip.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, walks
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 27
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Friday night
The spot
The views
Saturday night
The spot
The view
And finally a curio to explore further? (best click/full screen to spot the tarn in question)
From afar....
......a jewel glitters beckoningly
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Bloggers Meet the Burley Bog Monster
We were into the third hour of walking when we realised we'd hit trouble. Why when travelling over boggy ground is there never a clear cut half way mark? The point at which you can bail out and retrace your tracks staying mostly dryshod. Or at least dryer than you will be in five or maybe ten minutes time.
And if there was such a point, would us gung-ho alpha male outdoor blogger types ever admit it existed?
Naw probably not.
It was around this point my body involuntarily broke into the infamous bog hoppers dance. An attempt to deter gravitational forces by a speed-up in pace, reduce the physical footfall to a theoretical minimum, and propel the body forward to the next likely looking clump of darker coloured grass. Or not as the case may be.
Hop skip jump stagger dash. Splash. Bugger. Repeat the dance and plough on through.
Pausing on a suitably large clump at bogs edge, I turned to look for the five dogs accompanying us. Assorted sizes, all used to this sort of madness, but unaware of the next phase of lunacy that was in store. Bits of most of them were on view. True mostly mud caked, but still all above the marshy ground.
And then there was Weird Darren.
Oh no. Had I inadvertently done away with him? Sucked deep into the notorious New Forest bogs. Another sad statistic that the local tourist office play down 'Well yes sir, we do loose a few people each year but they tend to be mostly the infirm whose families take them off the waymarked paths when their time has come. We try not to publicise it too widely as the bogs do fill up so quickly'
It had all started so well earlier in the day.
An impromptu meet-up with Darren, a stroll on the New Forest, to take the air, shoot the breeze, and walk the dogs. The day dawned misty on the coast, usual for this time of year when the land first heats up quickly, but inland the sun had persisted and blue sky beckoned.
We left Vales Moor car park (OL22: 188 040) throwing in a loop to visit the man-made shelter, whatever it is, and then hitting the main track onto Burbush car park. Trying hard to ignore the mounds of litter bags already piling up at that 'beauty spot', we quickly passed onto the ridge to the north east, heading for Goats Pen, and the sneaky little woodland cut through to come out besides Burley Tea Rooms, where coffee and cake was the order of the day.
Returning along the track leading from Burley to Castle Hill, we paused on the hill to consider the panorama, limited by the distant mist still evident 'damn typical Bank Holiday weather' I guess for the stay adoors in those areas so affected.
Ahead our start point, and our finish. Ten minutes at most beyond the foot of the hill. And it was then we decided to try a detour to miss out the road section. A bit of land, bog terrain to my eyes, but Darren was keen to test out his theories of X socks and lightweight footwear, an earlier dip not proving enough for his stalwart demands.
We later ambled into the vicinity of the car park area, wandering through groups of day trippers and picnickers decked in their summer sun finery. Two mud spattered forms who had lurched out from the lower heathland, accompanied by 5 panting hounds. Both men and dogs equally in need of a serious hose down.
And that terrible sound that will never be forgotten by all who heard it this fateful day.
The steady 'squelch squelch' noise of a man testing lightweight footwear after a particularly cheeky bog crossing session. And the laughter of two people who'd avoided the bank holiday crowds & had a enjoyable time putting the world to rights, whilst out for wander.
Nice one Darren, thanks for a good day out. I still prefer my gore tex and dry feet, but then I'm not the one planning the Scottish trip.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, walks
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 27
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
And if there was such a point, would us gung-ho alpha male outdoor blogger types ever admit it existed?
Naw probably not.
It was around this point my body involuntarily broke into the infamous bog hoppers dance. An attempt to deter gravitational forces by a speed-up in pace, reduce the physical footfall to a theoretical minimum, and propel the body forward to the next likely looking clump of darker coloured grass. Or not as the case may be.
Hop skip jump stagger dash. Splash. Bugger. Repeat the dance and plough on through.
Pausing on a suitably large clump at bogs edge, I turned to look for the five dogs accompanying us. Assorted sizes, all used to this sort of madness, but unaware of the next phase of lunacy that was in store. Bits of most of them were on view. True mostly mud caked, but still all above the marshy ground.
And then there was Weird Darren.
Oh no. Had I inadvertently done away with him? Sucked deep into the notorious New Forest bogs. Another sad statistic that the local tourist office play down 'Well yes sir, we do loose a few people each year but they tend to be mostly the infirm whose families take them off the waymarked paths when their time has come. We try not to publicise it too widely as the bogs do fill up so quickly'
It had all started so well earlier in the day.
An impromptu meet-up with Darren, a stroll on the New Forest, to take the air, shoot the breeze, and walk the dogs. The day dawned misty on the coast, usual for this time of year when the land first heats up quickly, but inland the sun had persisted and blue sky beckoned.
We left Vales Moor car park (OL22: 188 040) throwing in a loop to visit the man-made shelter, whatever it is, and then hitting the main track onto Burbush car park. Trying hard to ignore the mounds of litter bags already piling up at that 'beauty spot', we quickly passed onto the ridge to the north east, heading for Goats Pen, and the sneaky little woodland cut through to come out besides Burley Tea Rooms, where coffee and cake was the order of the day.
Returning along the track leading from Burley to Castle Hill, we paused on the hill to consider the panorama, limited by the distant mist still evident 'damn typical Bank Holiday weather' I guess for the stay adoors in those areas so affected.
Ahead our start point, and our finish. Ten minutes at most beyond the foot of the hill. And it was then we decided to try a detour to miss out the road section. A bit of land, bog terrain to my eyes, but Darren was keen to test out his theories of X socks and lightweight footwear, an earlier dip not proving enough for his stalwart demands.
We later ambled into the vicinity of the car park area, wandering through groups of day trippers and picnickers decked in their summer sun finery. Two mud spattered forms who had lurched out from the lower heathland, accompanied by 5 panting hounds. Both men and dogs equally in need of a serious hose down.
And that terrible sound that will never be forgotten by all who heard it this fateful day.
The steady 'squelch squelch' noise of a man testing lightweight footwear after a particularly cheeky bog crossing session. And the laughter of two people who'd avoided the bank holiday crowds & had a enjoyable time putting the world to rights, whilst out for wander.
Nice one Darren, thanks for a good day out. I still prefer my gore tex and dry feet, but then I'm not the one planning the Scottish trip.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, walks
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 27
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
More UK Outdoor Blogging& a new forum
Apologies to 'Ali and Lay's Mountaineering' blog. I thought I'd mentioned it earlier, but after adding a link to my sidebar earlier today, I couldn't find my post (Memo to self - must ensure definition of reality/fantasy is more closely followed)
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes. Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Monday, March 26
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Their blog is not just about hill walking, and I was initally wary of adding it on, not because of the content (which is excellent) but more an appreciation that some of you out there may be getting blogger overdose at present, even with use of RSS feeders etc (is RSS worth an update on timesaving? Let me know if so)
I'm starting to filter referral links to blogs/sites that are hillwalking/wildcamping specific, despite there being many excellent sites that could possibly go on there.
What swung it for me on this blog was the piece on Tryfan, which had me nodding as I read, despite only ever getting half way up that particular hill a few years ago. The emotions expressed in the piece was right on the nose IMHO.
Ali (or is it Lay?) has also kindly taken on the work to create a forum for the active UK Outdoor Bloggers without any duress or prompting. Another trait so typical of the folk involved in these ventures at present. Giving something back without asking how much.
So now we can quietly get on with the 'state of the nation' type stuff over there, leaving our individual blog content to get back to being a bit more individualistic. (Was that a word? Well it is now! Wow what a rebel - lol)
Thanks Ali/Lay - nicely done. Let's see how it goes.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
UK Outdoors Bloggers Meet Up
....or how to kill two birds with one stone?
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Tuesday, March 20
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Weird Darren & Stef have come up with what sounds like a reasonable idea, even if the title is a little worrying. Not too sure whether to be associated with something named the UK Outdoors Bloggers Summer Camp (like gag me with a spoon?) But I applaud the idea of a get together where we are a little less rushed than the recent meet up at the NEC, about which coincidentally Bearded Git has just posted (slowcoach!)
It might be a suitable time to consider Chris from Hike Wales idea about a UK Outdoor Bloggers forum away from our own sites, to look at where all this may go and possibly look at some guiding principles, if relevant. Or not. But at least get together to air some ideas out loud?
And possibly pull in the podcast/vidcast brigade (Or Podcast Bob as he's known to his fans)?
If up for it anyway, and we don't even need to camp in a pub garden. As long as whoever comes up with the location doesn't forget some of us live in the deep south (Durzet) or in the south east near the big city lights (Hi George)
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sun
...........the Roadshow finally came to a timely conclusion at Heathrow. A return visit.
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days; Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Snapshots from the day................
1. Travelling into the early morning sun, down the 4 lane M40, watching 2 cars tail gate each other in the fast lane, on an otherwise car free road.
Eeerr- why? Old habits die hard then?
2. Listening to repeated security announcements about not leaving luggage, bomb threats, disposal by security staff etc etc.
So muggins here spots a bag left behind a pillar, outside the entrance. Quick glance inside - a box. Hmm. Run!Where's all the security I've been spotting moving on any car that dares draw up kerbside? Not a sign.
Inside - first Heathrow employee I meet has difficulty understanding my dialect. English. I finally give up when she keeps saying "you want information?" Err no m'dear. I may have found a bomb? so they probably want information from me?
Finally found 4 Heathrow staff mosying past and pointed out the suspect package (I think that's the vernacular thats in mode at present) To their credit they approached, carefully checked, and then send one of their number to get the right sort of help.
Pity the police car that drove past wasn't interested in being flagged down.
No idea what happened in the end. Almost certainly a false alarm, but as one who lived in the Midlands during the 1970s IRA bombing campaign, I know what can happen in supposed safe surroundings. I saw the results.
Hopefully it wasn't part of a plot to discredit your humble blogger. Even I draw the line somewhere.
So the roadshow ends on a bum note. Better than with a bang.
Gulp.
JH, posting from underneath the quilt, hiding in the nuclear fall out shelter for the next few days;
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow - Sat
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG.
So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.
Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Well if your going to do something big then best to do something really BIG. So the trip to Oxford took in the usually haunts, and then off to the Pitts River museum to meet up with one of the BIGGEST walkers in the outdoor world.
Meet Mr T (Rex that is) When he's crossing a field you put the sheep on a lead, not him. Not so much walking with dinosaurs, more walking around them.
Bet he was a bit of a handful after a few beers.
Scouting Oxford itself I couldn't help but notice the outdoor shop sales. Millets (80% off) and Blacks (70% off) 'selected ranges' The stuff on offer was a bit hit and miss, but no bets on which of these two establishments will be left when Black's consolidation completes. Bye Bye Millets.
Accomodation was provided by Oxford YHA. But I've much more to say on that one later. When I've cleaned the taste of it out of my mouth.
So fighting the urge to be escorted around this fair city I went walkabout myself.
To come across this strange construction in the process of being set up.Came complete with it's own security guards as well.
Impressive.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, March 12
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Held spell bound by the Great Sage Blessed, the call came over the NEC tannoy - 'The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® is about to commence'.
Well not so much spellbound, BB mostly repeated last years anecdotes, good entertainment, but the off-the-cuff stuff only works if it's covers new ground. Still I nice guy. I hope I have half his energy at 70. Or even 50 for that matter
But a blogger must follow the story, so off to the Jennings Brewey pub, 'The Cumberland Arms' located in the middle of Hall 1.
They must have selected their landlord especially to provide the correct ambient atmosphere. After he thought we had been there long enough supping our pints, he became increasingly grumpy.
Our fault really - we thought it was a refreshment stop not a publicity campaign to try beer tasters (a first, that one) and the Jennings line in branded clothing. It's meant to be a pub for gawds sake! Serve beer. Doh! And where pray tell was the pool table that Bearded Git was looking for?
Mr Landlord showed animal cunning though. Every time we tried to take a blog photot shot of him + bloggers he ducked out of the way and made sure he kept on moving. But we are not without some cunning ways of our own Mr Landlord. Gotcha!
Despite that the beer went down well and the chat was very pleasant bearing in mind this was the first time many of us had ever spoken to each other, never mind met face to face (very daunting) and most of us got to help out with Andy's interview technique as he played with his recorder for some future podcasts. no airs and graces, just good banter. Refreshingly so. Pity no one thought to tell me about the free 'press' beer though. Gits.
Nice to see you all darren , stef 'n wife, george, andy, chris, & dave (hope I haven't left any one out there) Also bumped into cameron (esteemed TGO editor) & paddy (esteemed travel writer + newly added to my links section), but didn't get time to say more than hello to the latter.
Too surrounded by all those pesky bloggers sniffing after work I assume - lol.
In fact there was just not enough time to get round all of you so apologies to anyone I snubbed, ignored, stole beer from (I wish), or just generally defamed.
It wasn't deliberate. The last few days hardship was starting to tell.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Venues confirmed
Now confirmed ............the following locations for the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Tues 13/3 LondonThu 15/3 BournemouthFri 16/3 NEC BirminghamSat 17/3 OxfordSun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)And here's the catch. Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours. To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3. Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest. Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now! Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time. More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Tues 13/3 London
Thu 15/3 Bournemouth
Fri 16/3 NEC Birmingham
Sat 17/3 Oxford
Sun 18/3 London
Spot the hat (not Spot the dog - eer no best leave that one alone)
And here's the catch.
Think of it as a bit of Da Vinci Code/Treasure Hunt or possibly Where's Wally? (Waldo for those US readers)
No precise venue will be given for any of the locations. But it will be an outdoor related activity that is unique to that area, and the event will take place for a minimum of 2 hours.
To give you an obvious clue - the Brum one will be 'The Outdoor Show', which is the main event on at the NEC on 16/3.
Now that was the easy one. Think I was going to give it all away so easily? Let's see how you fare with the rest.
Oh ok - here's a teaser ......Oxford will involve an overnight stop. Blimey that's almost given it away now!
Clues may be provided on request. But not to Africans with dubious offers concerning large sums of untraceable money. Had enough of those to last me some considerable time.
More clues to be posted later in the week. Maybe.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Roadshow......Update
Well as you, dear reader, were exclusively alerted last week the UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow continues to gather pace.
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Friday, March 9
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
And not like a walker coming down from Stickle Tarn in icy conditions.
Venues confirmed to date include London, Bournemouth, Oxford, London (repeat visit) and of course NEC Birmingham, when a number of the UK Outdoor Bloggers will be present, PDAs and opinions honed and ready.
Keep an eye out for the cat in the hat, at any of these locations, and claim your prize.
More to come - keep 'em peeled
"UOBC2007 - Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
UOBC2007 Freedom Fighters Front
It's coming soon...............
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Thursday, March 8
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® Roadshow
Will it be visiting a place near you?
More to follow
"Be there. Or eeerrr be somewhere else"
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Telegram from the frontier
It's such an exciting and positive time to be part of the UK Outdoor blogging scene at the moment.
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Tuesday, March 6
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
There's Atkoman continually stretching the bounds within his weblog trying out new ideas and fiddling with a variety of media and ideas. Checking the route out.
Londonbackpacker is stuck in the city but looking to the hills, BG! meanwhile is starting to find his blogging pace, watching the path ahead, with Mike Pitt bringing along some excellent dehydrated recipes for the trip.
Alan Sloman & I'm So Dave are out there doing it for real at the moment, walking Lands End/John 'O Groats. Reporting as they go.
Meanwhile the grandaddy (sorry AH) of them Andy Howell continues to stomp along, mixing considered opinion with his love of gear, the Pyrenees, and his new interest in the Podcast media.
And then there's Weird Darren over on Whitespider1066. Hhmmm.
At this point the metaphor stops to have a sit down, eat a cheese sarnie and take on some water.
WD is the newshound amongst us, always got his ear to the ground. And if you pop over to his blog you'll see he's blagged himself a spot on Outdoors Magic to provide a weekly round-up of the blog hilights.
No idea if this is going to be a regular piece, but whatever the outcome it's a hearty well done WD.
But what a task you've taken on there, to walk the thin line, and try not to offend the blogging fraternity. Well no more than usual!. Don't forget we know where you're going to be next Friday - hint hint. And don't think that Press pass will act like garlic and a crucifix where we're concerned.
;-)
And apologies to all you other Outdoor bloggers out there that I haven't name checked individually. I had to stop somewhere.
But that's upped the anti for all of us now, trying to think of something exciting each week so Darren doesn't dry up trying to get some round-up material.
Darren - what have you started?
(Serious mode)
I've said this before and it continues to surprise me, reflecting on my interaction with society as a whole both in a personal and professional capacity over many years, both solo and group orientated.
Pause and think for a moment.
When else have you come across the situation with such a disparate set of people, from varied backgrounds and ages; Most of whom have never met or spoken to each other; Geographically spread around the UK; All with distinctly individualistic styles & drives.
But with our shared enjoyment of walking/wildcamping, the seperate blogs have started to form a single voice. Mutter it softly, maybe even starting to produce something jointly far more powerful than its individual parts.
(John stifles a sob whilst practicing his acceptance speech for the next Bloggers Convention Award)
Right thats the reflective bit over.
WD - here's your own personal link. It just don't count if you post about yourself. Well not yet. Blimey you'll be on 'I'm a bleeding celebrity' next.
Actually come to think of it that's not such a bad idea. Can you imagine Ant and Dec trying to handle all us UK Outdoor Bloggers having a whale of a time, wildcamping in the Australian outback, cooking over open fires, and living off the land.
We'd pay good money to be left alone for weeks at an end. And who's going to give A & D a light slap for trying to drag us out of there too soon?
But who would blog it?
Ah dilemmas.
Labels: blog media, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention, uk walking blog
Blogger/NEC Outdoors Show Meet Up
Well folks - the meeting plans are out to all the interested parties.
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Saturday, March 3
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
If you've not had an e-mail from me please drop me an e-mail and we'll add you onto the celebrity list.
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
The Cat in the Hat
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Monday, February 26
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
This is the hat.
This is not a hat.
This is not some hat.
This is the hat.
The UK Outdoors Blogger Convention 2007 ® hat.
(With apologies to Dr Seuss)
Usually to be seen adorning my head winter or summer whilst out on lowland outings, the darkened area has been cunningly built up during years of misuse (and perspiration) to protect the frontal lobes of the wearer's highly tuned brain.
That and being walloped by low hanging branches.
Should be so easy to spot me now during the show. What more do you need?
Labels: UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
Outdoors Station Podcast - Breaking News
Hot off the press newbreak.
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope) Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
I hear that Podcast Bob's next Outdoors Station Podcast may be offering a fantastic opportunity to win free entry to the NEC Outdoor Show. No other details as yet, so I'd suggest you keep an ear open for Bob's impending releases.
RSS feed link here (I hope)
Labels: blog media, NEC Outdoors Show, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
