Friday, May 27
Still upright, still breathing!
Preparing for my next wildcamping escape to Dartmoor I've been reviewing over 20 years of trip notes in an attempt to consolidate it all onto one single map.
Which has meant turning the house upside down looking for old trip notebooks, for details of precise routes.
Which in turn resulted in a review of all my Dartmoor photos, trying to locate/date various interesting spots I'd marked as potential revisit spots one day.
Which brings me back to this blog.
(Phew, talk about a long winded way to eventually get to the point)
In these days of Facebook\Vidlogs etc I'd long ago come to the conclusion that the glorious days of 'The Outdoor Blog' were over.
And it really doesn't help that so many of the original (and much mourned) fellow travellers seem to be no longer around to swop notes and ideas in such a suitable forum. Many since gone on their own solo walk from which they will never return - miss you folks.
So it seems the useful days of shared information exchange have largely disappeared with the spattergun effects from the impact of Facebook et al.
Then there is the look & feel of this blog's format itself. I have trouble finding information myself! And I wrote/host it, so what chance do the rest of you have?
In the days of laptop\web browser viewing it worked, but for mobile users? Nah a right pig to navigate. Whatever the value of the content, if you can't get to it easily, it may as well be manure. Not to be waded through recklessly.
Time for a think as to this site's future.
Once it was a useful method of recording my trips logs, but became a generally beneficial communication tool for others seeking information or (whisper it gently) entertainment.
After my next trip, with time again to spare, I'll see how relevant this remains. Depends if I have the drive to transfer my trip jottings over to the web.
(At least recording my trips on here I don't have to spend fruitless time searching for my bloody trip reports)
And perhaps there is a simple way to migrate this site to a new platform, one that is mobile friendlier. (any tips out there?)
Tapping out these jottings are a little like whistling into a deep mineshaft of solitary disinterest, so if there's anyone still out there, why not leave me a comment?
It'll inform my decision on where this goes next.....
Cheers wildcampers
Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, dartmoor, Mental Health, National Park, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Saturday, September 25
Rambling Man
As these boys once coyly observed - 'It's been a long time since I R&R'd'.
Or so it would appear based on the empirical evidence of my recent minimalist posting frequency.
There's a Good Reason for this.
Well perhaps not A Reason. That normally indicates some form of defence position associated with a blameworthy deed.
So lets try An Explanation instead.
Yes, that feels a far more honest way to express my intent.
Regular readers (or at least any of you still following these jottings despite patchy outpourings over recent months) may recall my explanation of editorial policy back in 2008.
(The full article can be found here, here, & here for any so inclined)
'If you've nothing to say, say nothing'
A trap, as I observed at that time, which is all too easy to spring on one's self.
At the same time I've observed over recent months a certain creeping ennui amongst a number of the Outdoor\Walking Blogs that I keep up with.
Now that may just be my own personal reflection on life at present. Or perhaps the format & content of the Outdoor Blog, per se, has reached its maturity. And with this arrival of 'comfy middle age' has come an inevitable complacency.
Whatever the situation it seems I have been especially uninspired for the last few months to spend the lengthy time it requires to jot down some credible thought or observation worth sharing.
No apology for this. If the passion is missing, the writing can never be anything more than turgid entertainment even when at its best (IMHO)
I had hoped to be attending the Outdoor Trade Show at Stoneleigh this weekend. Especially as the Press Pass, kindly issued by the organisers, sits besides me still beckoning alluringly, and the pre-show information had my interest piqued.
But a sudden opportunity (one long overdue) to flee to foreign climes for a impromptu break means the show trip has fallen by the wayside as I instead resolve last minute holiday arrangements.
So where does this leave this particular Blogger?
Perversely, and despite all of the above, in a good place.
Life events, conjoined with a recognition of The State of Things, are leading to a certain point. One where for the first time during my adult life I find myself speedily approaching a crossroad on what has become a long but increasingly tedious track.
Ahead there are many interesting diversions offering the time & resources to freely select my pattern of living into my future. Which carries that somewhat scary penalty of (virtually) unlimited Free Choice.
Too enigmatic? For certain reasons I must at present remain circumspect about the detailed background.
But my hope, on your part dear reader, is that my current lethargy is about to be Blown Out Of The Way. A Wind Of Change is a-gustin' in these parts. And with it, I trust, an extra sparkle of content variety will result for your own R&R purposes.
But hark. I hear the tannoy's call, urging me to hurry onwards for embarkation and the welcoming embrace of my personal Flight Attendants. Or Airline Sales Reps as they have become in these days of low budget flying.
Meanwhile I leave you with this short, but oh so sweet, commentary on life.
Labels: blog media
Thursday, September 23
Cumbria Floods - Journo in Jug
For those following this tale of woe - the finale.
Whilst it seems a heavy penalty perhaps it could be a helping hand for one particularly troubled individual.
Lets hope so - for then something positive would come from the whole sorry affair.Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
Saturday, September 4
Cumbria Floods - Journalistic Licence Cancelled?
If you happen to remember my previous comments about naughtiness at a really inappropriate time you may recall my May '10 update that formal charges had been brought.
Well thanks once again to Grough, there is a conclusion, of sorts, to this tale of woe.
The trial started last Thursday, during which the legal representative quit.
By Friday the court had declared a Guilty verdict.
Regrettably the journalist involved "felt too unwell to attend the trial"
The local MRT response to the decision was an honest one, no doubt thankful that action has been publicly taken to warn against similarly hoax ideas.
And as for the punishment ........... the hearing was adjourned for reports, but with a warrant issued for the arrest of Ms Crickmer, who remained absent from her trial.
Keep 'em peeled folks.Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
Friday, June 18
I've had the builders in
A couple of small site mods - most of which would probably pass you by if I don't mention them.
An unsought link referral earned me a commendation from TripBase. I'm still not certain what this means. Or how long I'll leave it up on the site. But if it causes any reader irritation, rather than assistance - please let me know.
More controversial perhaps is my next change.
I've noticed recently that more of my on-line purchases are now via Amazon or E-Bay despite checking for other sites for those Best Price Deals etc.
In the last month I've easily made over 10 separate purchases via Amazon. Mostly cheap used paperbacks, but also more costly items. My MP3 player & batteries were both via this source, rather than the specialist sites I've used in the past.
The reason? Amazon's prices mostly remain competitive. And delivery is usually a painless and rapid process.
By coincidence I came across a couple of articles about the Amazon Associates scheme. As I seem to be already linking to Amazon items, I figured by signing-up to this I may potentially bring a few pennies in my direction to balance this site's overheads.
Its not that commercial a move.
I don't intend to plug products. Nor introduce those intrusive hovering link boxes.
And as I won't see any £s unless someone actually buys one of the products I'm not conniving with those damned site link thru scams.
But I do like to keep this Blog honest & fair. So I thought it worth a mention.
Somehow I don't think early retirement will be the outcome of all this.
;-)Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 25
A Vote For Podcast Bob Isn't a Vote Wasted
I'm reminded, having now seen Podcast Bob's business activity from both sides of the counter, that he has also done one or two Podcasts along the way.
So a reminder for those interested - the European Podcast Award voting is open for this year (An award that Bob won last year for his Outdoor Podcasts)
As you no doubt know Bob continues to provide his Podcasts free of charge. So if you enjoy them why not pop over make your vote count for him?
A nice way to say ThankYou?
At least with this sort of vote you get to enjoy what you vote for.
Unlike the Other Event currently underway across the UK, littering the fields and roadsides with (highly illegal?) & most unsightly fly posting.
I should know having just seen copious amount of roadside crap on my return journey earlier.
I reckon the Government should do something about whoever is behind all this eye-sore!Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 18
Back Packers Club AGM
Well this week could have gone much worse. I managed to catch the last but one flight out of Ireland so I've been watching with a certain bemused air the grounding of air flights across Europe.
I was gazing over the snow remnants high on the slopes of Wicklow Mountains as I flew out of the airport. Mentally checking ridge routes for a potential walking trip later this year.
Now if I'd only I'd arrived a day later I can guess where I would have 'unavoidably' been forced to spend my time this weekend.
Instead I'm sat in front of this pesky computer keyboard yet again.
Ho hum.
But at least that has given me the chance to catch up with the latest Outdoor Podcasts - especially Podcast Bob's final piece on the NEC Outdoors Show. An interesting interview with the Show's organiser, especially concerning the decision to move the 2011 event to a new venue (London) & and new date (January)
(Why not listen to it yourself and make up your own mind?)
Personally - I think the bells are tolling the death knell for the event as the UK's primary Outdoor Walking Show open to the general public.
Which in itself may not be a bad thing if the show held at the Backpackers Club AGM (Bath 24 April) draws the interest it has in the past.
I'll let you know how that one comes out after my AGM visit this coming weekend.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, NEC Outdoors Show
Saturday, April 3
Train of thought - OS data goes Public
Mindful of the copyright vagaries surrounding on-line mapping projects positive news this week from the Ordinance Survey.
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?Labels: blog media
Friday, April 2
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Preparing for my next wildcamping escape to Dartmoor I've been reviewing over 20 years of trip notes in an attempt to consolidate it all onto one single map.
Which has meant turning the house upside down looking for old trip notebooks, for details of precise routes.
Which in turn resulted in a review of all my Dartmoor photos, trying to locate/date various interesting spots I'd marked as potential revisit spots one day.
Which brings me back to this blog.
(Phew, talk about a long winded way to eventually get to the point)
In these days of Facebook\Vidlogs etc I'd long ago come to the conclusion that the glorious days of 'The Outdoor Blog' were over.
And it really doesn't help that so many of the original (and much mourned) fellow travellers seem to be no longer around to swop notes and ideas in such a suitable forum. Many since gone on their own solo walk from which they will never return - miss you folks.
So it seems the useful days of shared information exchange have largely disappeared with the spattergun effects from the impact of Facebook et al.
Then there is the look & feel of this blog's format itself. I have trouble finding information myself! And I wrote/host it, so what chance do the rest of you have?
In the days of laptop\web browser viewing it worked, but for mobile users? Nah a right pig to navigate. Whatever the value of the content, if you can't get to it easily, it may as well be manure. Not to be waded through recklessly.
Time for a think as to this site's future.
Once it was a useful method of recording my trips logs, but became a generally beneficial communication tool for others seeking information or (whisper it gently) entertainment.
After my next trip, with time again to spare, I'll see how relevant this remains. Depends if I have the drive to transfer my trip jottings over to the web.
(At least recording my trips on here I don't have to spend fruitless time searching for my bloody trip reports)
And perhaps there is a simple way to migrate this site to a new platform, one that is mobile friendlier. (any tips out there?)
Tapping out these jottings are a little like whistling into a deep mineshaft of solitary disinterest, so if there's anyone still out there, why not leave me a comment?
It'll inform my decision on where this goes next.....
Cheers wildcampers
Labels: Backpacking Advice, blog media, dartmoor, Mental Health, National Park, UK Outdoors Blogger, uk walking blog
Rambling Man
As these boys once coyly observed - 'It's been a long time since I R&R'd'.
Or so it would appear based on the empirical evidence of my recent minimalist posting frequency.
There's a Good Reason for this.
Well perhaps not A Reason. That normally indicates some form of defence position associated with a blameworthy deed.
So lets try An Explanation instead.
Yes, that feels a far more honest way to express my intent.
Regular readers (or at least any of you still following these jottings despite patchy outpourings over recent months) may recall my explanation of editorial policy back in 2008.
(The full article can be found here, here, & here for any so inclined)
'If you've nothing to say, say nothing'
A trap, as I observed at that time, which is all too easy to spring on one's self.
At the same time I've observed over recent months a certain creeping ennui amongst a number of the Outdoor\Walking Blogs that I keep up with.
Now that may just be my own personal reflection on life at present. Or perhaps the format & content of the Outdoor Blog, per se, has reached its maturity. And with this arrival of 'comfy middle age' has come an inevitable complacency.
Whatever the situation it seems I have been especially uninspired for the last few months to spend the lengthy time it requires to jot down some credible thought or observation worth sharing.
No apology for this. If the passion is missing, the writing can never be anything more than turgid entertainment even when at its best (IMHO)
I had hoped to be attending the Outdoor Trade Show at Stoneleigh this weekend. Especially as the Press Pass, kindly issued by the organisers, sits besides me still beckoning alluringly, and the pre-show information had my interest piqued.
But a sudden opportunity (one long overdue) to flee to foreign climes for a impromptu break means the show trip has fallen by the wayside as I instead resolve last minute holiday arrangements.
So where does this leave this particular Blogger?
Perversely, and despite all of the above, in a good place.
Life events, conjoined with a recognition of The State of Things, are leading to a certain point. One where for the first time during my adult life I find myself speedily approaching a crossroad on what has become a long but increasingly tedious track.
Ahead there are many interesting diversions offering the time & resources to freely select my pattern of living into my future. Which carries that somewhat scary penalty of (virtually) unlimited Free Choice.
Too enigmatic? For certain reasons I must at present remain circumspect about the detailed background.
But my hope, on your part dear reader, is that my current lethargy is about to be Blown Out Of The Way. A Wind Of Change is a-gustin' in these parts. And with it, I trust, an extra sparkle of content variety will result for your own R&R purposes.
But hark. I hear the tannoy's call, urging me to hurry onwards for embarkation and the welcoming embrace of my personal Flight Attendants. Or Airline Sales Reps as they have become in these days of low budget flying.
Meanwhile I leave you with this short, but oh so sweet, commentary on life.
Labels: blog media
Thursday, September 23
Cumbria Floods - Journo in Jug
For those following this tale of woe - the finale.
Whilst it seems a heavy penalty perhaps it could be a helping hand for one particularly troubled individual.
Lets hope so - for then something positive would come from the whole sorry affair.Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
Saturday, September 4
Cumbria Floods - Journalistic Licence Cancelled?
If you happen to remember my previous comments about naughtiness at a really inappropriate time you may recall my May '10 update that formal charges had been brought.
Well thanks once again to Grough, there is a conclusion, of sorts, to this tale of woe.
The trial started last Thursday, during which the legal representative quit.
By Friday the court had declared a Guilty verdict.
Regrettably the journalist involved "felt too unwell to attend the trial"
The local MRT response to the decision was an honest one, no doubt thankful that action has been publicly taken to warn against similarly hoax ideas.
And as for the punishment ........... the hearing was adjourned for reports, but with a warrant issued for the arrest of Ms Crickmer, who remained absent from her trial.
Keep 'em peeled folks.Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
Friday, June 18
I've had the builders in
A couple of small site mods - most of which would probably pass you by if I don't mention them.
An unsought link referral earned me a commendation from TripBase. I'm still not certain what this means. Or how long I'll leave it up on the site. But if it causes any reader irritation, rather than assistance - please let me know.
More controversial perhaps is my next change.
I've noticed recently that more of my on-line purchases are now via Amazon or E-Bay despite checking for other sites for those Best Price Deals etc.
In the last month I've easily made over 10 separate purchases via Amazon. Mostly cheap used paperbacks, but also more costly items. My MP3 player & batteries were both via this source, rather than the specialist sites I've used in the past.
The reason? Amazon's prices mostly remain competitive. And delivery is usually a painless and rapid process.
By coincidence I came across a couple of articles about the Amazon Associates scheme. As I seem to be already linking to Amazon items, I figured by signing-up to this I may potentially bring a few pennies in my direction to balance this site's overheads.
Its not that commercial a move.
I don't intend to plug products. Nor introduce those intrusive hovering link boxes.
And as I won't see any £s unless someone actually buys one of the products I'm not conniving with those damned site link thru scams.
But I do like to keep this Blog honest & fair. So I thought it worth a mention.
Somehow I don't think early retirement will be the outcome of all this.
;-)Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 25
A Vote For Podcast Bob Isn't a Vote Wasted
I'm reminded, having now seen Podcast Bob's business activity from both sides of the counter, that he has also done one or two Podcasts along the way.
So a reminder for those interested - the European Podcast Award voting is open for this year (An award that Bob won last year for his Outdoor Podcasts)
As you no doubt know Bob continues to provide his Podcasts free of charge. So if you enjoy them why not pop over make your vote count for him?
A nice way to say ThankYou?
At least with this sort of vote you get to enjoy what you vote for.
Unlike the Other Event currently underway across the UK, littering the fields and roadsides with (highly illegal?) & most unsightly fly posting.
I should know having just seen copious amount of roadside crap on my return journey earlier.
I reckon the Government should do something about whoever is behind all this eye-sore!Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 18
Back Packers Club AGM
Well this week could have gone much worse. I managed to catch the last but one flight out of Ireland so I've been watching with a certain bemused air the grounding of air flights across Europe.
I was gazing over the snow remnants high on the slopes of Wicklow Mountains as I flew out of the airport. Mentally checking ridge routes for a potential walking trip later this year.
Now if I'd only I'd arrived a day later I can guess where I would have 'unavoidably' been forced to spend my time this weekend.
Instead I'm sat in front of this pesky computer keyboard yet again.
Ho hum.
But at least that has given me the chance to catch up with the latest Outdoor Podcasts - especially Podcast Bob's final piece on the NEC Outdoors Show. An interesting interview with the Show's organiser, especially concerning the decision to move the 2011 event to a new venue (London) & and new date (January)
(Why not listen to it yourself and make up your own mind?)
Personally - I think the bells are tolling the death knell for the event as the UK's primary Outdoor Walking Show open to the general public.
Which in itself may not be a bad thing if the show held at the Backpackers Club AGM (Bath 24 April) draws the interest it has in the past.
I'll let you know how that one comes out after my AGM visit this coming weekend.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, NEC Outdoors Show
Saturday, April 3
Train of thought - OS data goes Public
Mindful of the copyright vagaries surrounding on-line mapping projects positive news this week from the Ordinance Survey.
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?Labels: blog media
Friday, April 2
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Or so it would appear based on the empirical evidence of my recent minimalist posting frequency.
There's a Good Reason for this.
Well perhaps not A Reason. That normally indicates some form of defence position associated with a blameworthy deed.
So lets try An Explanation instead.
Yes, that feels a far more honest way to express my intent.
Regular readers (or at least any of you still following these jottings despite patchy outpourings over recent months) may recall my explanation of editorial policy back in 2008.
(The full article can be found here, here, & here for any so inclined)
'If you've nothing to say, say nothing'
A trap, as I observed at that time, which is all too easy to spring on one's self.
At the same time I've observed over recent months a certain creeping ennui amongst a number of the Outdoor\Walking Blogs that I keep up with.
Now that may just be my own personal reflection on life at present. Or perhaps the format & content of the Outdoor Blog, per se, has reached its maturity. And with this arrival of 'comfy middle age' has come an inevitable complacency.
Whatever the situation it seems I have been especially uninspired for the last few months to spend the lengthy time it requires to jot down some credible thought or observation worth sharing.
No apology for this. If the passion is missing, the writing can never be anything more than turgid entertainment even when at its best (IMHO)
I had hoped to be attending the Outdoor Trade Show at Stoneleigh this weekend. Especially as the Press Pass, kindly issued by the organisers, sits besides me still beckoning alluringly, and the pre-show information had my interest piqued.
But a sudden opportunity (one long overdue) to flee to foreign climes for a impromptu break means the show trip has fallen by the wayside as I instead resolve last minute holiday arrangements.
So where does this leave this particular Blogger?
Perversely, and despite all of the above, in a good place.
Life events, conjoined with a recognition of The State of Things, are leading to a certain point. One where for the first time during my adult life I find myself speedily approaching a crossroad on what has become a long but increasingly tedious track.
Ahead there are many interesting diversions offering the time & resources to freely select my pattern of living into my future. Which carries that somewhat scary penalty of (virtually) unlimited Free Choice.
Too enigmatic? For certain reasons I must at present remain circumspect about the detailed background.
But my hope, on your part dear reader, is that my current lethargy is about to be Blown Out Of The Way. A Wind Of Change is a-gustin' in these parts. And with it, I trust, an extra sparkle of content variety will result for your own R&R purposes.
But hark. I hear the tannoy's call, urging me to hurry onwards for embarkation and the welcoming embrace of my personal Flight Attendants. Or Airline Sales Reps as they have become in these days of low budget flying.
Meanwhile I leave you with this short, but oh so sweet, commentary on life.
Labels: blog media
Cumbria Floods - Journo in Jug
For those following this tale of woe - the finale.
Whilst it seems a heavy penalty perhaps it could be a helping hand for one particularly troubled individual.
Lets hope so - for then something positive would come from the whole sorry affair.Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
Saturday, September 4
Cumbria Floods - Journalistic Licence Cancelled?
If you happen to remember my previous comments about naughtiness at a really inappropriate time you may recall my May '10 update that formal charges had been brought.
Well thanks once again to Grough, there is a conclusion, of sorts, to this tale of woe.
The trial started last Thursday, during which the legal representative quit.
By Friday the court had declared a Guilty verdict.
Regrettably the journalist involved "felt too unwell to attend the trial"
The local MRT response to the decision was an honest one, no doubt thankful that action has been publicly taken to warn against similarly hoax ideas.
And as for the punishment ........... the hearing was adjourned for reports, but with a warrant issued for the arrest of Ms Crickmer, who remained absent from her trial.
Keep 'em peeled folks.Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
Friday, June 18
I've had the builders in
A couple of small site mods - most of which would probably pass you by if I don't mention them.
An unsought link referral earned me a commendation from TripBase. I'm still not certain what this means. Or how long I'll leave it up on the site. But if it causes any reader irritation, rather than assistance - please let me know.
More controversial perhaps is my next change.
I've noticed recently that more of my on-line purchases are now via Amazon or E-Bay despite checking for other sites for those Best Price Deals etc.
In the last month I've easily made over 10 separate purchases via Amazon. Mostly cheap used paperbacks, but also more costly items. My MP3 player & batteries were both via this source, rather than the specialist sites I've used in the past.
The reason? Amazon's prices mostly remain competitive. And delivery is usually a painless and rapid process.
By coincidence I came across a couple of articles about the Amazon Associates scheme. As I seem to be already linking to Amazon items, I figured by signing-up to this I may potentially bring a few pennies in my direction to balance this site's overheads.
Its not that commercial a move.
I don't intend to plug products. Nor introduce those intrusive hovering link boxes.
And as I won't see any £s unless someone actually buys one of the products I'm not conniving with those damned site link thru scams.
But I do like to keep this Blog honest & fair. So I thought it worth a mention.
Somehow I don't think early retirement will be the outcome of all this.
;-)Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 25
A Vote For Podcast Bob Isn't a Vote Wasted
I'm reminded, having now seen Podcast Bob's business activity from both sides of the counter, that he has also done one or two Podcasts along the way.
So a reminder for those interested - the European Podcast Award voting is open for this year (An award that Bob won last year for his Outdoor Podcasts)
As you no doubt know Bob continues to provide his Podcasts free of charge. So if you enjoy them why not pop over make your vote count for him?
A nice way to say ThankYou?
At least with this sort of vote you get to enjoy what you vote for.
Unlike the Other Event currently underway across the UK, littering the fields and roadsides with (highly illegal?) & most unsightly fly posting.
I should know having just seen copious amount of roadside crap on my return journey earlier.
I reckon the Government should do something about whoever is behind all this eye-sore!Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 18
Back Packers Club AGM
Well this week could have gone much worse. I managed to catch the last but one flight out of Ireland so I've been watching with a certain bemused air the grounding of air flights across Europe.
I was gazing over the snow remnants high on the slopes of Wicklow Mountains as I flew out of the airport. Mentally checking ridge routes for a potential walking trip later this year.
Now if I'd only I'd arrived a day later I can guess where I would have 'unavoidably' been forced to spend my time this weekend.
Instead I'm sat in front of this pesky computer keyboard yet again.
Ho hum.
But at least that has given me the chance to catch up with the latest Outdoor Podcasts - especially Podcast Bob's final piece on the NEC Outdoors Show. An interesting interview with the Show's organiser, especially concerning the decision to move the 2011 event to a new venue (London) & and new date (January)
(Why not listen to it yourself and make up your own mind?)
Personally - I think the bells are tolling the death knell for the event as the UK's primary Outdoor Walking Show open to the general public.
Which in itself may not be a bad thing if the show held at the Backpackers Club AGM (Bath 24 April) draws the interest it has in the past.
I'll let you know how that one comes out after my AGM visit this coming weekend.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, NEC Outdoors Show
Saturday, April 3
Train of thought - OS data goes Public
Mindful of the copyright vagaries surrounding on-line mapping projects positive news this week from the Ordinance Survey.
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?Labels: blog media
Friday, April 2
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Whilst it seems a heavy penalty perhaps it could be a helping hand for one particularly troubled individual.
Lets hope so - for then something positive would come from the whole sorry affair.
Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
Cumbria Floods - Journalistic Licence Cancelled?
If you happen to remember my previous comments about naughtiness at a really inappropriate time you may recall my May '10 update that formal charges had been brought.
Well thanks once again to Grough, there is a conclusion, of sorts, to this tale of woe.
The trial started last Thursday, during which the legal representative quit.
By Friday the court had declared a Guilty verdict.
Regrettably the journalist involved "felt too unwell to attend the trial"
The local MRT response to the decision was an honest one, no doubt thankful that action has been publicly taken to warn against similarly hoax ideas.
And as for the punishment ........... the hearing was adjourned for reports, but with a warrant issued for the arrest of Ms Crickmer, who remained absent from her trial.
Keep 'em peeled folks.Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
Friday, June 18
I've had the builders in
A couple of small site mods - most of which would probably pass you by if I don't mention them.
An unsought link referral earned me a commendation from TripBase. I'm still not certain what this means. Or how long I'll leave it up on the site. But if it causes any reader irritation, rather than assistance - please let me know.
More controversial perhaps is my next change.
I've noticed recently that more of my on-line purchases are now via Amazon or E-Bay despite checking for other sites for those Best Price Deals etc.
In the last month I've easily made over 10 separate purchases via Amazon. Mostly cheap used paperbacks, but also more costly items. My MP3 player & batteries were both via this source, rather than the specialist sites I've used in the past.
The reason? Amazon's prices mostly remain competitive. And delivery is usually a painless and rapid process.
By coincidence I came across a couple of articles about the Amazon Associates scheme. As I seem to be already linking to Amazon items, I figured by signing-up to this I may potentially bring a few pennies in my direction to balance this site's overheads.
Its not that commercial a move.
I don't intend to plug products. Nor introduce those intrusive hovering link boxes.
And as I won't see any £s unless someone actually buys one of the products I'm not conniving with those damned site link thru scams.
But I do like to keep this Blog honest & fair. So I thought it worth a mention.
Somehow I don't think early retirement will be the outcome of all this.
;-)Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 25
A Vote For Podcast Bob Isn't a Vote Wasted
I'm reminded, having now seen Podcast Bob's business activity from both sides of the counter, that he has also done one or two Podcasts along the way.
So a reminder for those interested - the European Podcast Award voting is open for this year (An award that Bob won last year for his Outdoor Podcasts)
As you no doubt know Bob continues to provide his Podcasts free of charge. So if you enjoy them why not pop over make your vote count for him?
A nice way to say ThankYou?
At least with this sort of vote you get to enjoy what you vote for.
Unlike the Other Event currently underway across the UK, littering the fields and roadsides with (highly illegal?) & most unsightly fly posting.
I should know having just seen copious amount of roadside crap on my return journey earlier.
I reckon the Government should do something about whoever is behind all this eye-sore!Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 18
Back Packers Club AGM
Well this week could have gone much worse. I managed to catch the last but one flight out of Ireland so I've been watching with a certain bemused air the grounding of air flights across Europe.
I was gazing over the snow remnants high on the slopes of Wicklow Mountains as I flew out of the airport. Mentally checking ridge routes for a potential walking trip later this year.
Now if I'd only I'd arrived a day later I can guess where I would have 'unavoidably' been forced to spend my time this weekend.
Instead I'm sat in front of this pesky computer keyboard yet again.
Ho hum.
But at least that has given me the chance to catch up with the latest Outdoor Podcasts - especially Podcast Bob's final piece on the NEC Outdoors Show. An interesting interview with the Show's organiser, especially concerning the decision to move the 2011 event to a new venue (London) & and new date (January)
(Why not listen to it yourself and make up your own mind?)
Personally - I think the bells are tolling the death knell for the event as the UK's primary Outdoor Walking Show open to the general public.
Which in itself may not be a bad thing if the show held at the Backpackers Club AGM (Bath 24 April) draws the interest it has in the past.
I'll let you know how that one comes out after my AGM visit this coming weekend.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, NEC Outdoors Show
Saturday, April 3
Train of thought - OS data goes Public
Mindful of the copyright vagaries surrounding on-line mapping projects positive news this week from the Ordinance Survey.
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?Labels: blog media
Friday, April 2
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Well thanks once again to Grough, there is a conclusion, of sorts, to this tale of woe.
The trial started last Thursday, during which the legal representative quit.
By Friday the court had declared a Guilty verdict.
Regrettably the journalist involved "felt too unwell to attend the trial"
The local MRT response to the decision was an honest one, no doubt thankful that action has been publicly taken to warn against similarly hoax ideas.
And as for the punishment ........... the hearing was adjourned for reports, but with a warrant issued for the arrest of Ms Crickmer, who remained absent from her trial.
Keep 'em peeled folks.
Labels: blog media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
I've had the builders in
A couple of small site mods - most of which would probably pass you by if I don't mention them.
An unsought link referral earned me a commendation from TripBase. I'm still not certain what this means. Or how long I'll leave it up on the site. But if it causes any reader irritation, rather than assistance - please let me know.
More controversial perhaps is my next change.
I've noticed recently that more of my on-line purchases are now via Amazon or E-Bay despite checking for other sites for those Best Price Deals etc.
In the last month I've easily made over 10 separate purchases via Amazon. Mostly cheap used paperbacks, but also more costly items. My MP3 player & batteries were both via this source, rather than the specialist sites I've used in the past.
The reason? Amazon's prices mostly remain competitive. And delivery is usually a painless and rapid process.
By coincidence I came across a couple of articles about the Amazon Associates scheme. As I seem to be already linking to Amazon items, I figured by signing-up to this I may potentially bring a few pennies in my direction to balance this site's overheads.
Its not that commercial a move.
I don't intend to plug products. Nor introduce those intrusive hovering link boxes.
And as I won't see any £s unless someone actually buys one of the products I'm not conniving with those damned site link thru scams.
But I do like to keep this Blog honest & fair. So I thought it worth a mention.
Somehow I don't think early retirement will be the outcome of all this.
;-)Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 25
A Vote For Podcast Bob Isn't a Vote Wasted
I'm reminded, having now seen Podcast Bob's business activity from both sides of the counter, that he has also done one or two Podcasts along the way.
So a reminder for those interested - the European Podcast Award voting is open for this year (An award that Bob won last year for his Outdoor Podcasts)
As you no doubt know Bob continues to provide his Podcasts free of charge. So if you enjoy them why not pop over make your vote count for him?
A nice way to say ThankYou?
At least with this sort of vote you get to enjoy what you vote for.
Unlike the Other Event currently underway across the UK, littering the fields and roadsides with (highly illegal?) & most unsightly fly posting.
I should know having just seen copious amount of roadside crap on my return journey earlier.
I reckon the Government should do something about whoever is behind all this eye-sore!Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 18
Back Packers Club AGM
Well this week could have gone much worse. I managed to catch the last but one flight out of Ireland so I've been watching with a certain bemused air the grounding of air flights across Europe.
I was gazing over the snow remnants high on the slopes of Wicklow Mountains as I flew out of the airport. Mentally checking ridge routes for a potential walking trip later this year.
Now if I'd only I'd arrived a day later I can guess where I would have 'unavoidably' been forced to spend my time this weekend.
Instead I'm sat in front of this pesky computer keyboard yet again.
Ho hum.
But at least that has given me the chance to catch up with the latest Outdoor Podcasts - especially Podcast Bob's final piece on the NEC Outdoors Show. An interesting interview with the Show's organiser, especially concerning the decision to move the 2011 event to a new venue (London) & and new date (January)
(Why not listen to it yourself and make up your own mind?)
Personally - I think the bells are tolling the death knell for the event as the UK's primary Outdoor Walking Show open to the general public.
Which in itself may not be a bad thing if the show held at the Backpackers Club AGM (Bath 24 April) draws the interest it has in the past.
I'll let you know how that one comes out after my AGM visit this coming weekend.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, NEC Outdoors Show
Saturday, April 3
Train of thought - OS data goes Public
Mindful of the copyright vagaries surrounding on-line mapping projects positive news this week from the Ordinance Survey.
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?Labels: blog media
Friday, April 2
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
An unsought link referral earned me a commendation from TripBase. I'm still not certain what this means. Or how long I'll leave it up on the site. But if it causes any reader irritation, rather than assistance - please let me know.
More controversial perhaps is my next change.
I've noticed recently that more of my on-line purchases are now via Amazon or E-Bay despite checking for other sites for those Best Price Deals etc.
In the last month I've easily made over 10 separate purchases via Amazon. Mostly cheap used paperbacks, but also more costly items. My MP3 player & batteries were both via this source, rather than the specialist sites I've used in the past.
The reason? Amazon's prices mostly remain competitive. And delivery is usually a painless and rapid process.
By coincidence I came across a couple of articles about the Amazon Associates scheme. As I seem to be already linking to Amazon items, I figured by signing-up to this I may potentially bring a few pennies in my direction to balance this site's overheads.
Its not that commercial a move.
I don't intend to plug products. Nor introduce those intrusive hovering link boxes.
And as I won't see any £s unless someone actually buys one of the products I'm not conniving with those damned site link thru scams.
But I do like to keep this Blog honest & fair. So I thought it worth a mention.
Somehow I don't think early retirement will be the outcome of all this.
;-)
Labels: blog media
A Vote For Podcast Bob Isn't a Vote Wasted
I'm reminded, having now seen Podcast Bob's business activity from both sides of the counter, that he has also done one or two Podcasts along the way.
So a reminder for those interested - the European Podcast Award voting is open for this year (An award that Bob won last year for his Outdoor Podcasts)
As you no doubt know Bob continues to provide his Podcasts free of charge. So if you enjoy them why not pop over make your vote count for him?
A nice way to say ThankYou?
At least with this sort of vote you get to enjoy what you vote for.
Unlike the Other Event currently underway across the UK, littering the fields and roadsides with (highly illegal?) & most unsightly fly posting.
I should know having just seen copious amount of roadside crap on my return journey earlier.
I reckon the Government should do something about whoever is behind all this eye-sore!Labels: blog media
Sunday, April 18
Back Packers Club AGM
Well this week could have gone much worse. I managed to catch the last but one flight out of Ireland so I've been watching with a certain bemused air the grounding of air flights across Europe.
I was gazing over the snow remnants high on the slopes of Wicklow Mountains as I flew out of the airport. Mentally checking ridge routes for a potential walking trip later this year.
Now if I'd only I'd arrived a day later I can guess where I would have 'unavoidably' been forced to spend my time this weekend.
Instead I'm sat in front of this pesky computer keyboard yet again.
Ho hum.
But at least that has given me the chance to catch up with the latest Outdoor Podcasts - especially Podcast Bob's final piece on the NEC Outdoors Show. An interesting interview with the Show's organiser, especially concerning the decision to move the 2011 event to a new venue (London) & and new date (January)
(Why not listen to it yourself and make up your own mind?)
Personally - I think the bells are tolling the death knell for the event as the UK's primary Outdoor Walking Show open to the general public.
Which in itself may not be a bad thing if the show held at the Backpackers Club AGM (Bath 24 April) draws the interest it has in the past.
I'll let you know how that one comes out after my AGM visit this coming weekend.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, NEC Outdoors Show
Saturday, April 3
Train of thought - OS data goes Public
Mindful of the copyright vagaries surrounding on-line mapping projects positive news this week from the Ordinance Survey.
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?Labels: blog media
Friday, April 2
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
So a reminder for those interested - the European Podcast Award voting is open for this year (An award that Bob won last year for his Outdoor Podcasts)
As you no doubt know Bob continues to provide his Podcasts free of charge. So if you enjoy them why not pop over make your vote count for him?
A nice way to say ThankYou?
At least with this sort of vote you get to enjoy what you vote for.
Unlike the Other Event currently underway across the UK, littering the fields and roadsides with (highly illegal?) & most unsightly fly posting.
I should know having just seen copious amount of roadside crap on my return journey earlier.
I reckon the Government should do something about whoever is behind all this eye-sore!
Labels: blog media
Back Packers Club AGM
Well this week could have gone much worse. I managed to catch the last but one flight out of Ireland so I've been watching with a certain bemused air the grounding of air flights across Europe.
I was gazing over the snow remnants high on the slopes of Wicklow Mountains as I flew out of the airport. Mentally checking ridge routes for a potential walking trip later this year.
Now if I'd only I'd arrived a day later I can guess where I would have 'unavoidably' been forced to spend my time this weekend.
Instead I'm sat in front of this pesky computer keyboard yet again.
Ho hum.
But at least that has given me the chance to catch up with the latest Outdoor Podcasts - especially Podcast Bob's final piece on the NEC Outdoors Show. An interesting interview with the Show's organiser, especially concerning the decision to move the 2011 event to a new venue (London) & and new date (January)
(Why not listen to it yourself and make up your own mind?)
Personally - I think the bells are tolling the death knell for the event as the UK's primary Outdoor Walking Show open to the general public.
Which in itself may not be a bad thing if the show held at the Backpackers Club AGM (Bath 24 April) draws the interest it has in the past.
I'll let you know how that one comes out after my AGM visit this coming weekend.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, NEC Outdoors Show
Saturday, April 3
Train of thought - OS data goes Public
Mindful of the copyright vagaries surrounding on-line mapping projects positive news this week from the Ordinance Survey.
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?Labels: blog media
Friday, April 2
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
I was gazing over the snow remnants high on the slopes of Wicklow Mountains as I flew out of the airport. Mentally checking ridge routes for a potential walking trip later this year.
Now if I'd only I'd arrived a day later I can guess where I would have 'unavoidably' been forced to spend my time this weekend.
Instead I'm sat in front of this pesky computer keyboard yet again.
Ho hum.
But at least that has given me the chance to catch up with the latest Outdoor Podcasts - especially Podcast Bob's final piece on the NEC Outdoors Show. An interesting interview with the Show's organiser, especially concerning the decision to move the 2011 event to a new venue (London) & and new date (January)
(Why not listen to it yourself and make up your own mind?)
Personally - I think the bells are tolling the death knell for the event as the UK's primary Outdoor Walking Show open to the general public.
Which in itself may not be a bad thing if the show held at the Backpackers Club AGM (Bath 24 April) draws the interest it has in the past.
I'll let you know how that one comes out after my AGM visit this coming weekend.
Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, NEC Outdoors Show
Train of thought - OS data goes Public
Mindful of the copyright vagaries surrounding on-line mapping projects positive news this week from the Ordinance Survey.
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?Labels: blog media
Friday, April 2
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Well sort of.
I've checked the OS site for a clearer picture of what has changed, but it looks like many of the links go nowhere relevant. However there is a licence agreement to download that seems quite positive (and mercifully short)
Quite what this means for those of us hopeful of using OS mapping data on our sites, besides the opportunity to get involved in some self funded techie development - well I can't quite work that out.
Can anyone translate in simple terms what this means for a simple minded Blogger, on Outdoor Matters, thinking about posting a detailed route map sometime in the near future?
Labels: blog media
UK Waterfalls - Database of locations
My last mutterings gave me a long overdue nudge to mention a new on-line resource dedicated to mapping UK waterfalls - Waterfalls.me
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Wednesday, February 10
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
"This website is dedicated to all the wonderful waterfalls throughout the United Kingdom.
I'm hoping to compile a database of all the major and many minor waterfalls, with a map of their location and hopefully photographs of each of the falls. There are a few other websites listing the falls throughout the UK .......... but I have yet to find a site where you can view a map and find any local falls to the area you are in.
I hope this will be of use to somebody out there, whether on your holidays or making special trips to see the falls"
I chatted via one of the UK Outdoor News Groups (yes they do still exist) with the site author following his appeal for additional waterfall information.
So if there's one you know of that you think should be added - why not drop him an e-mail?
Labels: blog media, nature
Press Sense-or-ship?
The episodic Darren Effect once more comes into play
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Monday, February 8
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Anybody who follows the link to the BBC Scotland page on my post yesterday will find it has been mysteriously removed.
Is that a letter to my MP I feel coming on? (lol)
More seriously there's a pragmatic exchange of views bursting across the BloggoSphere today with updates from PTC & Darren along with thoughts from Chris 'Beardy Man' Townsend.
General consensus is Loch Lomand has a problem that needs to be resolved, and their approach is being handled with a degree of sensitivity & polite consideration.
Which bearing in mind the experiences of my local National Park has to be a positive move all of its own sweet self.
This is getting to be all very grown-up.
Happily - for once.
Thanks to Chris T for identifying the cause of the BBC link failure - which has been corrected. Bugger's up my Conspiracy Theory though as it was my error in the end.
(But let's not allow that teeny fact get in the way of a good story!)
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Scottish Wildcamping & the Pressgang(ed)
Today's mutterings come to you courtesy of the letters L, P & W.
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in Weird Darren - Oops make that Whitespider1066.
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Tuesday, August 11
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
L - as in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park current garnishing opinion as to their proposal to put in place byelaws that would ban informal camping contrary to Scotland's Right To Roam enshrined under their own recent statute.
P - as in Petesy (aka PTC) the first Blog article across which I stumbled across earlier this evening.
Happily - I know not how- someone else has recognised Petesy's credentials and invited him to contribute to Tuesday's BBC Good Morning Scotland program.
Well ok, it may only be radio, but on top of his past pieces for Trail Magazine (back when they paid contributors), surely that means a move onto the Celebs F list?
That's still a couple of legs higher than Katie Price IMHO.
Eeerr ...that didn't come out quite as I intended it to.
Oh well.......and finally ..............
W - as in
Stalwart of the Legalise Wildcamping Campaign Darren wandered into the 2009 Backpacker's Club AGM. May be his attention was still a-wandering. For by the time he left the meeting he'd become the BPC's latest Club Secretary.
(Now there's a sneaky move - looking for committee nominations at the end of a long meeting when the audience's defences are down)
Since then Darren's been doing a steady job representing the BPC.
Which is why his is the second Blog article concerning Loch Lomand plans that I bring to your attention this evening.
And nothing to do with the fact that the BBC (THE BBC for Chrisssakes!) quote him by name.
And even provide a hot link through to his Blog. (Now which Celeb list does that qualify him for I wonder?)
Nice one gents - you even scooped my usual Outdoor News Ticker Tape.
Labels: Backpackers Club, blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, National Park
Competition Prize time - What More!
I've two freeebies left from the recent Birthday Competition.
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Monday, August 10
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
- Call Out Mountain Rescue - Mountain Rescue's guide to safety on the hill
- Regatta X-ert Performance baseball style suncap (Seal grey - size S/M)
If you fancy either of these just add a comment below with an idea or issue that you would like to see covered on this Blog
(Well it was a hard weekend and my brain/ideas throughput is sparking erratically at the moment)
Closing date Saturday midnight. I'll draw two lucky names at random on Sunday 15/8.
Labels: blog media
Birthday Competition
(Edit 10 Aug)
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of RiskLabels: blog media
Saturday, August 1
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
The last of the prizes will be going to the local Post Office tomorrow (Tues)
Here's the final list of the lucky recipients
Londonbackpacker - Nalgene Cantene water bladder
keeniemeenie - Vibram Fivefingers KSO
Martin Rye - The Wild Places - Robert Macfarlane
Trevor D Gamble - Tilley Hat
Mark Dunkerley - Blizzard Bag
PhilT - The Philosophy of Risk
Labels: blog media
Scottish Ramblers - Death & Life
Earlier this month I commented on the likelihood of Ramblers north of the border going it alone following the way national cutbacks had split regional support.
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Sunday, July 26
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Looking at Cameron McNeish's recent article I'd say that was now a certainty.
The RA may be a large organisation, faced with corporate business decisions to consider and action. Especially where financial matters are involved.
At times that means hard and unpopular decisions.
But unlike most typical businesses there is no tangible consumer product to create revenue. Even taken as a service supply venture there is no "product" involved. They are a registered charity who's existence is to represent tens of thousands of ordinary walkers. Some active, some interested, some reading in dentist's waiting rooms. Most willing to pay their annual subscription, but only where a (mostly selfish?) benefit is perceived.
People are buying into an Idea & Representation.
The main communication between the RA's Head Office and its customer base is via the WALK magazine - an infrequent publication; Rather too full of glossy adverts and middle of the road interest pieces IMHO.
Like Digital v Analogue TV, FM v DAB radio & Traditional Press v Internet Media, the market place for any target audience is now badly fractured. Run-of-the-mill audiences are now Run-away.
Nowadays if you don't feed my specific area of interest, there's always an alternative.
Putting my neck out I go as far as to say that very few RA members now join due to the RA's remit to support Rights of Way/represent 'ramblers' interests.
(Actually I'm not too sure why people join now I came to think about that last sentence)
All of which feels a sad reflection on today's society, but never the less is how it is.
As one of those organisations so media touted to reap the vogue for credit crunch (read cheap) & healthy lifestyle (read cheap) alternatives the RA had already taken an initiative to re badge its image back in March 2009.
A positive step towards turning around the slow trickle of departing members.
(Back in early 2008, based on membership figures assumed from WALK distribution, I commented on a 1% drop during 2007; The latest figures for 2008 show this has risen to 2.4% over the period 2006-2008. Not a huge dent in the present 103,322 total, but a continued movement in the wrong direction)
In June the RA's show piece "Walking 09 - Members Day" was cancelled.
"It is with regret that we have decided to cancel the event which was scheduled for September 5th, as the take-up has been much lower than anticipated".
Somewhat reflective of the composition of today's RA membership?
Meanwhile "Ramblers Scotland has also taken a leading role in the promotion of healthy walking - we're extending our work in this area throughout Scotland"
The sort of crusading initiative that draws in new members?
Well not for Ramblers UK in the future.
It seems to me that the RA has been losing its way for some time. And now, through a botched handling of its reorganisation, there will be a heavy price to pay.
The gradual break up of its national organisation during the next couple of years.
Sad. But also a pivotal moment for new vibrancy from far flung provinces?
McRamblers anyone?
Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media
Birthday Competition - Results
Well done to all those who took part. Hopefully you found a few interesting tit bits during the treasure hunt.
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
By some amazing coincidence every entrant is a winner on this occasion.
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
So to the answers:
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
The answer I had in mind when I set this poser was"I started backpacking as an escape away from home/parents", but a few of you reminded me I'd also been influenced by Scouts, so that answer is equally as valid.
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something specific relating to destruction & rebirth - what was the object in question?
The burnt out remains of an Alpine Chalet, and its subsequent rebuild
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Hilleberg Akto (Well - what else could it be!)
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
Well this brought up some interesting ideas of this site's visitor activity - some of which could have made me feel most inadequate.
Page Loads on the day numbered a dismal (for some reason) 75, with the total for 2009 to the end of the day being 18,210.
Those nearest to the daily total (and the overall winner was suspiciously close!) got preference with YTD then coming into play.
The winners:
- 1 Londonbackpacker
- 2= keeniemeenie
- 2= Mark Dunkerley
- 4 Martin Rye
- 5 Trevor D Gamble
- 6 PhilT
Drop me an e-mail (TO: johnhee AT walkaboutintheuk.co.uk) with your address details, and a 1..2...3 preference of which prize you'd prefer. I'll allocate them using the above order, and come back to anyone if there's a clash, but hopefully it will all work out equitably.
Thanks to all and enjoy the freebies as they drop onto your doormat during the coming week or so.
Labels: blog media
The Futures So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades?
PTC's recent coverage of the Innov_ex 2009 conference, threw up an interesting insight into one possible Future of Retail & Marketing.
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 25
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Whether you agree, or not, it looks as if change in this area is already well underway, and inevitable as the on-line-always-connected-personal-service tractor continues to have its impact on our day to day lives, as it slowly trundles along the narrow country lane of consumer persuasiveness.
The Future of Retail and Selling (Gerd Leonhard at eComm 2009 in Berlin)
View more documents from Gerd Leonhard.
Labels: blog media
Birthday Competition
Today may be this site's third birthday, but there is still time to enter the free competition here.
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.Labels: blog media
Saturday, July 18
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
As I've not exactly been overwhelmed with the number of entries, I'd say the chance of a prize are looking pretty good at present.
Entries close at midnight tonight.
Labels: blog media
Birthday Competition
There's still one week left to enter this site's birthday competition here
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.Labels: blog media
Thursday, July 9
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
There's a variety of goodies to choose from.
Go on - who can resist when the magic word FREE is involved.
Labels: blog media
Scottish Ramblers - One idea can change the world
Not quite the phrase I was originally fumbling for. But the words, reportedly the personal motto of Hasan Ozbekhan, seemed far more relevant for today's drooling from a darkening box room desk.
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
Wednesday, July 8
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Fancy starting a revolution? (yep - the Internet has a DIY Guide even for this)
Its a personal fancy of mine to wildcamp at remote locations, far from those infamous maddening crowds. In fact far from everyone else really.
Its an idea that seems to be slowly catching on as first Blogpackinglight caught onto the idea, and now Bearded Git has spotted the appeal.
The true joy of such a simple concept is that it is one so easily achieved, but highly selective of those that wish to embrace it. For the true Advocate needs the Urge, some Self Reliance, Motivation from within, and the Will to follow their own path.
Oh, and a map and compass help.
But not this way...
That lone voice in the crowd, the true personification of individuality, their very action contradicting their statement with that immortal line "I'm Not".
Every time I watch this clip I find myself cheering that solitary voice, as if the scene was written as my own private joke. An arrogant viewpoint, as I've discovered many of you on the wildcamping scene seem to have a similar reaction to the lone voice, and how it can be expressed.
Every idea has a start. That moment when a single thought becomes a spoken word. Communication that is in tune with zeitgeist either through some enforcing action (We're off to war - come join us) or on a gentler level a pervasive understanding of an need, not previously understood, which calls to be fulfilled.
Sometimes, Gandhi like, the Idea will Change The World. More often ideas become assuaged, maimed & distorted by fashion, culture, society or merely the passing of time.
Which brings me to the the Ramblers proposal to close their regional offices, a predictably emotive idea already reported in some detail by Chris Townsend and Cameron McNeish.
We find Cameron, in his latest post, in an understandably angry mood. But one already reflecting on some of the underlying issues. Scotland, proud of establishing a devolved country as a working alternative to a centrally imposed government. Ramblers, a national organisation that appears to have lost contact with a substantial part of its grass root membership. One that has been highly supportive of the organisation's ideals and campaigns over many years.
My own small idea is a personal one, that some readers may find appealing for their own trips.
Outdoor personalities such as Chris & Cameron have a much bigger idea to consider. One with the potential to rip apart a national organisation. Perhaps even moving towards separate and independent regional groups, with their own aims, funding & membership.
Interesting times ahead.
Labels: blog media, Cameron McNeish, media, nature
The Competition - Enter Here
I've thought long and hard about setting some suitably fiendish questions in celebration of this site's third birthday.
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
Much of it wasted activity to be honest, as even I couldn't answer some of the original ideas that my warped persona came up with.
So back to basics it is then. But slightly challenging as the prizes warrant a little effort. After all - can't make it too easy can we? I have a reputation to uphold.
Hmm. Anyway - the questions all have answers somewhere on this site, except the Tie-Breaker.
To enter - merely leave your answers in the COMMENTS ON THIS POST ONLY between now (8/7/09) and midnight on July 25th 2009.
Q1. Why did I originally start backpacking?
Q2. In Hincheslea Wood I saw something rise from the ashes - what was the object in question?
Q3. What is the make & model of my tent?
Tie-Breaker: How many page loads will I get on July 25th 2009?
(Hint: I've had around 16.5k so far this year)
Prizes, as if you need reminding, are:
- Vibram Fivefingers KSO Size 40 [Ex review - worn, but not in anger]
- Tilley Hat - Model T3 Size 140 [As recommended by Ray Mears]
- Nalgene Cantene water bladder (96oz) [Courtesy of Podcast Bob, brand new, and now unobtainable]
- Book - "Call Out Mountain Rescue" (MRT's pocket guide to safety on the hill)
- Book - "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane
- Book - "The Philosophy of Risk" by Jeff Connor (the life of Dougal Haston)
- Regatta X-ert Performance Baseball cap (Seal grey - size S/M - new)
- Furtech Blizzard Bag (ex review; unpacked; unused outdoors)
Rules
- 1 entry per person
- In the event all 3 answers are correct the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of Winner 1, 2 etc
- If less than 3 answers are correct, and prizes remain, the Tie Breaker will be used to determine the order of the remaining Winners
- Winner 1 will be offered their pick of the goody bag; Winner 2 next choice etc etc
- In the event prizes remain, or are not claimed by the end of July I may offer them up on a first come, first served basis.
- My decision is autocratic, despotic, unilateral. And final.
Best of luck.
Labels: blog media
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
