Monday, August 31
The Weather Man is a Drip
Did you enjoy today's sunny weather? Hopefully that won't be the last gasp of this derisory summer just yet.
But who knows for sure?
Maybe the Meteorological Office & its ubiquitous stooge the TV Weatherman?
Perhaps.
Or then again.......Nope - probably not with their track record over recent times.
For this weekend was the last straw for me in treating seriously the dire content of the dumbed down weather forecast for the masses.
Take Saturday's TV forecast beamed out around 22:00 in the evening on BBC1.
'Bad weather on Sunday for the south of England, but not until around 5pm' cheerily pronounced the Metman's grinning monkey, 'Enjoy the Sunday sunshine while you can'.
Meanwhile, blue screen background behind him, the forecaster waved his arms with enthusiastic animation as a computer generated model of the weather for the next 24 hours silently confirmed his projection. Its crude overview indicating clouds and rain cruising across from Ireland, and due to reach my own locale until late on Sunday.
It must be true - the time was at the bottom of the cartoon after all.
Plans made accordingly I departed to bed. Why then did I look out of the window early Sunday morning to see thick cloud cover. Which by lunchtime had built into light drizzle for the rest of the afternoon? By then I'd given up in disgust and was watching the rain blow in from the coast whilst getting some work sorted in the office.
(Well it seemed like a good way to use the time bearing in mind the happier alternatives that had gone by the board)
How is it the high tech, multi million pound Met Office weather models can be so inept about weather only 12 hours ahead?
That's not the worse case I can relate. The TV forecasts have been getting progressively more dreadful over a period of many months. Its almost as if the senseless drive to make the forecast more "accessible" to the drooling TV couch potato has up-ended any accuracy they once had.
And for what?
The conditions Outdoor are largely irrelevant for Mr Lardy Arse TV Watcher.
Nope. I've had it with the TV & Radio forecasts from now on.
Here's my three top tips on how to predict the forthcoming weather:
1. In hilly areas, refer to the Mountain Weather Information Service's report for the next 1-2 days. These tend to have a very high level of accuracy & are essential reading for high hill walking at times of bad weather.
2. Learn to read & interpret a pressure chart. I like this site, although the level of detail can be intimidating for the uninitiated at first (click on the dates at the foot of the page).
Another excellent source is on the MWIS site.
Or there's this over on the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts site
3. DIY. Look out of the window & go outdoors. Check the flow of air movement especially in comparison to the clouds overhead. Sense the air temperature - colder or warmer than earlier? Look at the clouds and the formations. Then back indoors to tap the barometer to see if its rising or falling.
Then take your best guess!
4. Finally - down to the seashore & pick up some seaweed.
Only a fraction of the cost of the Met Office's new "second most powerful computer in the UK" but probably a damn sight more accurate than the drivel fed to us from the goggle box each day.
Better still - sod the forecast - just get outside anyway.
And pack a waterproof, just in case.
Wednesday, August 26
Comments & Spam
Thanks to a persistent little beggar who leaves the same meaningless drivel on one particular post I've switched the comment verification on for a short while.
Apologies for any inconvenience - normal service will be resumed once I've dissuaded the idiot to go away
Monday, August 24
Walkers & Cattle - Advice
The Enemy #1 - The Cow
Genetically over engineered over many centuries into a meat & milk provider. Typically two tone in colour. Heavy nasal drooling at one end. And a different sort of drooling at the other.
If in doubt carefully use a scratch & sniff test to quickly distinguish the key differences. Try not to lick your fingers afterwards.
The Enemy #2 - The Bullock
The juvenile male. Often identified by a tendency to unexpectedly demonstrate their sexual awakening by attempting to mount each other. Often repeatedly. Despite mixed success.
Intensely curious and prone to rapidly cover a field's length seconds after you've strayed within the barb wire/electrified boundary fence fortification.
The Owner - The Cattle Farmer
Some believe this to be a mix of the two genres. Often distinguished by the use of green wellingtons, dung coloured (typically blue) overalls, & a loud greeting call "Gerroff-my-land-you-townies".
Well ok I may be guilty of ever egging those descriptions a little.
Except for the green wellies.
But more seriously today's BBC reports have hi-lighted certain dangers associated with these usually tranquil beasts (I meant the cows by the way)
Beware of cows with their calves. Especially if you encounter them whilst accompanied by a dog.
Personally, even when not dog accompanied, I have a tendency to avoid any beast weighing in excess of 1/2 ton and capable of short bursts of speed in my general direction. No matter what its motivation may be.
The NFU advice has been issued as a result of the deaths of 3 walkers in 3 months.
Their advice to walkers
"if you have a dog with you, keep it under close control, but do not hang on to it should a cow or bull start acting aggressively. If you feel threatened, just carry on as normal, do not run, move to the edge of the field and if possible find another way round the field, returning to the original path as soon as is possible. And remember to close the gate".
(I love that mention of the gate. A good idea to prevent yet another headlong chase down the next field, but at the same time rather a recognisable farmy piece of advice)
The main problem for those of not familiar with bovine nature - what is aggressive behaviour?
Most cattle will wander over to a stile if they spot a walker. After all chewing cud and trying to mount your brothers can becomes tedious after a few weeks of such wild experiences.
I regularly walk across a large open expanse of common land watching the behaviour of cattle.
Based, I assume on their previous encounters, a few cattle will hang back from the main herd, effectively acting as scouts. These will initiate a rapid move towards the cause of any disquiet, bringing the rest of the herd cavorting behind them, feet drumming hard.
Not a pleasant prospect if you happen to be that cause.
Unfortunately the latest victim was a farmer. But back at the Royal Welsh Show in July the FUW (think NFU Wales) was quoted as saying that "Cases of potentially-deadly stampeding cattle unwittingly spooked by dog walkers are almost certainly set to rise"
(Lets ignore the comment "In part it was due to cash-strapped "townies" holidaying in the UK at a time of recession and heading for the countryside to relax")
Here's my advice, based on years of experience using farm paths. Its personal, so make up your own mind at your own risk.
1. Don’t keep the dog on a lead, but do keep it under control at all times.
If its not sufficiently well trained to stay to heel, or be sent away, you really shouldn't be out with it amongst farm animals.
2. By all means carry a stout stick. But as most people, including myself, do not carry one try picking up a few small stones (not rocks!) before entering a field.
It’s a last ditch deterrent. Better a few stings on a cow's thick hide, and a potential dressing down from a farmer, than being knocked over & injured by a fast moving herd.
3. If the beasts move towards you, make loud single syllable noises, such as they'd expect from the cowhand (cowherd?) also make yourself look bigger, but try not to wave your hands about alarmingly. Not so much noise that they become spooked, but enough to give you time for a rapid & controlled exit, whilst they try to work out just what the hell you are.
Thinking herding noises.
(I used this on my last Dartmoor trip for a couple of miles, in an area covered with impenetrable gorse thickets and narrow paths. A river was on one side. A steep rise on the other. The cows & their calves wouldn’t take the hint to veer away, despite my vectoring approaches. As this was the only way off the moor unless I turned back for a five mile detour, near the end of a long day I had little choice on this occasion.
4. Don’t (completely) turn your back or try to out sprint them. Back away steadily whilst ensuring you remain upright & prepared to move off to one side to avoid any confrontation.
5. Keep an eye out for all potential exit routes, moving well around any herd where possible. Remember that most of the boundary hedgerows will be hiding barbed wire. Its meant to prevent the escape of large curious animals. That works the same where you are concerned as well.
Its not a good time to find this out when entangled in this as part of any rapid exit.
Remember Steve McQueen in the Great Escape?
6. If it does come to a close up encounter I'm told a hard slap across the snout will work wonders.
Personally I've not test this particular tip. Not do I ever intend to get into a situation where I need to test the hypothesis.
If someone slapped me across the snout I’d tend to thrash about a fair bit, or take it as an attack. But quite what a 1/2 ton beast may do …..?
7. Finally (or should this be firstly?) if in doubt make a detour to avoid crossing the field.
I'm not too proud to admit I've done this on many occasions where cows/horses have shown rather too much interest in my presence before I've even entered the field.
This is one circumstance where Flight before Fight is A Good Thing
Any more tips - leave a comment please.Labels: nature
Sunday, August 23
Ups & Downs of an Outdoor Slacker
Its been a weird sort of year so far.
With an impending 50th birthday due in 2009 I’d originally planned to celebrate with something special. A low reservation place for the 2009 TGO Challenge put paid to the obvious solution, whilst work commitments meant that most of my spare thinking time was instead spent in a semi-vegative state of recovery.
Once clear of the immediate work pressures I re-kick started myself with a trip to Dartmoor (Hot!) That was swiftly followed up a month later with a visit to the Lakes (Wet!)
Amazed I'd found the time & personal energy reserves to get Things Outdoorsy moving successfully once more, and so early in the year (always a difficulty after the long darkness of wintertime) I went for three in a row with a trip to Wales a little more than a month later, just in time to saviour warm long days on hills in that pre-holiday period.
Well that was the plan. Matters of a personal nature meant that real life intruded into my 2009 winning streak. The trip never came off with a decision to remain near to family & home.
Now, as I watch the summer evenings darken earlier each day, and the blackberries & acorns swell alarmingly amongst their foliage, I see the opportunities for 2009 are slipping steadily away.
The 'personal concern' is drawing to a rather tangled conclusion, ensnaring all involved, but still requiring my on-hand assistant & support.
And as if to compensate, work matters, relatively quiescent for some months, are again threatening to soak up mental energy better directed towards planning some impromptu trips in the Autumn.
As I said at the top of this piece, its been a weird sort of year so far.
Wonder what 2009 has left to throw my way?
Bring it on
Tuesday, August 18
Google Chrome - Reprise
Google Chrome
One plus of my recent viral infections is that I finally moved away from IE8
One pc is now happily running Firefox, which I'm slowly getting to like.
The other is on Google Chrome - and what a whizzy little beast it is. Worth checking out if you (like me) find yourself impatiently waiting for pages to load
Whoosh.
One slight drawback
I like Google Chrome. But GC doesn't seem to like this blog - the font size (as Geoff flagged to me some time ago) goes Very Strange At Times.
But now I'm using GC I'll try to nip that one in the bud on future posts.
Monday, August 17
A Quick One
So why the news blackout from JH Enterprises?
Perhaps some momentous backpacking trip to report.
Maybe even an extended period of kit testing?
No such luck.
Without going into too much (monotonous) detail let me just leave you with a few words to make up your own version of events
MALWARE
VIRUS
PIGGIN
GIT
AGAIN
WORK
SLEEP
SPYWARE
NOOOOOOOOOO
Sometimes I hate PCs
Doh!
Sometimes
Tuesday, August 11
MRT Rescue. Addictive. Discuss.
It would certainly seem so for one hapless individual requiring MRT assistance for the second year in a row.
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
But who knows for sure?
Maybe the Meteorological Office & its ubiquitous stooge the TV Weatherman?
Perhaps.
Or then again.......Nope - probably not with their track record over recent times.
For this weekend was the last straw for me in treating seriously the dire content of the dumbed down weather forecast for the masses.
Take Saturday's TV forecast beamed out around 22:00 in the evening on BBC1.
'Bad weather on Sunday for the south of England, but not until around 5pm' cheerily pronounced the Metman's grinning monkey, 'Enjoy the Sunday sunshine while you can'.
Meanwhile, blue screen background behind him, the forecaster waved his arms with enthusiastic animation as a computer generated model of the weather for the next 24 hours silently confirmed his projection. Its crude overview indicating clouds and rain cruising across from Ireland, and due to reach my own locale until late on Sunday.
It must be true - the time was at the bottom of the cartoon after all.
Plans made accordingly I departed to bed. Why then did I look out of the window early Sunday morning to see thick cloud cover. Which by lunchtime had built into light drizzle for the rest of the afternoon? By then I'd given up in disgust and was watching the rain blow in from the coast whilst getting some work sorted in the office.
(Well it seemed like a good way to use the time bearing in mind the happier alternatives that had gone by the board)
How is it the high tech, multi million pound Met Office weather models can be so inept about weather only 12 hours ahead?
That's not the worse case I can relate. The TV forecasts have been getting progressively more dreadful over a period of many months. Its almost as if the senseless drive to make the forecast more "accessible" to the drooling TV couch potato has up-ended any accuracy they once had.
And for what?
The conditions Outdoor are largely irrelevant for Mr Lardy Arse TV Watcher.
Nope. I've had it with the TV & Radio forecasts from now on.
Here's my three top tips on how to predict the forthcoming weather:
1. In hilly areas, refer to the Mountain Weather Information Service's report for the next 1-2 days. These tend to have a very high level of accuracy & are essential reading for high hill walking at times of bad weather.
2. Learn to read & interpret a pressure chart. I like this site, although the level of detail can be intimidating for the uninitiated at first (click on the dates at the foot of the page).
Another excellent source is on the MWIS site.
Or there's this over on the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts site
3. DIY. Look out of the window & go outdoors. Check the flow of air movement especially in comparison to the clouds overhead. Sense the air temperature - colder or warmer than earlier? Look at the clouds and the formations. Then back indoors to tap the barometer to see if its rising or falling.
Then take your best guess!
4. Finally - down to the seashore & pick up some seaweed.
Only a fraction of the cost of the Met Office's new "second most powerful computer in the UK" but probably a damn sight more accurate than the drivel fed to us from the goggle box each day.
Better still - sod the forecast - just get outside anyway.
And pack a waterproof, just in case.
Comments & Spam
Thanks to a persistent little beggar who leaves the same meaningless drivel on one particular post I've switched the comment verification on for a short while.
Apologies for any inconvenience - normal service will be resumed once I've dissuaded the idiot to go away
Monday, August 24
Walkers & Cattle - Advice
The Enemy #1 - The Cow
Genetically over engineered over many centuries into a meat & milk provider. Typically two tone in colour. Heavy nasal drooling at one end. And a different sort of drooling at the other.
If in doubt carefully use a scratch & sniff test to quickly distinguish the key differences. Try not to lick your fingers afterwards.
The Enemy #2 - The Bullock
The juvenile male. Often identified by a tendency to unexpectedly demonstrate their sexual awakening by attempting to mount each other. Often repeatedly. Despite mixed success.
Intensely curious and prone to rapidly cover a field's length seconds after you've strayed within the barb wire/electrified boundary fence fortification.
The Owner - The Cattle Farmer
Some believe this to be a mix of the two genres. Often distinguished by the use of green wellingtons, dung coloured (typically blue) overalls, & a loud greeting call "Gerroff-my-land-you-townies".
Well ok I may be guilty of ever egging those descriptions a little.
Except for the green wellies.
But more seriously today's BBC reports have hi-lighted certain dangers associated with these usually tranquil beasts (I meant the cows by the way)
Beware of cows with their calves. Especially if you encounter them whilst accompanied by a dog.
Personally, even when not dog accompanied, I have a tendency to avoid any beast weighing in excess of 1/2 ton and capable of short bursts of speed in my general direction. No matter what its motivation may be.
The NFU advice has been issued as a result of the deaths of 3 walkers in 3 months.
Their advice to walkers
"if you have a dog with you, keep it under close control, but do not hang on to it should a cow or bull start acting aggressively. If you feel threatened, just carry on as normal, do not run, move to the edge of the field and if possible find another way round the field, returning to the original path as soon as is possible. And remember to close the gate".
(I love that mention of the gate. A good idea to prevent yet another headlong chase down the next field, but at the same time rather a recognisable farmy piece of advice)
The main problem for those of not familiar with bovine nature - what is aggressive behaviour?
Most cattle will wander over to a stile if they spot a walker. After all chewing cud and trying to mount your brothers can becomes tedious after a few weeks of such wild experiences.
I regularly walk across a large open expanse of common land watching the behaviour of cattle.
Based, I assume on their previous encounters, a few cattle will hang back from the main herd, effectively acting as scouts. These will initiate a rapid move towards the cause of any disquiet, bringing the rest of the herd cavorting behind them, feet drumming hard.
Not a pleasant prospect if you happen to be that cause.
Unfortunately the latest victim was a farmer. But back at the Royal Welsh Show in July the FUW (think NFU Wales) was quoted as saying that "Cases of potentially-deadly stampeding cattle unwittingly spooked by dog walkers are almost certainly set to rise"
(Lets ignore the comment "In part it was due to cash-strapped "townies" holidaying in the UK at a time of recession and heading for the countryside to relax")
Here's my advice, based on years of experience using farm paths. Its personal, so make up your own mind at your own risk.
1. Don’t keep the dog on a lead, but do keep it under control at all times.
If its not sufficiently well trained to stay to heel, or be sent away, you really shouldn't be out with it amongst farm animals.
2. By all means carry a stout stick. But as most people, including myself, do not carry one try picking up a few small stones (not rocks!) before entering a field.
It’s a last ditch deterrent. Better a few stings on a cow's thick hide, and a potential dressing down from a farmer, than being knocked over & injured by a fast moving herd.
3. If the beasts move towards you, make loud single syllable noises, such as they'd expect from the cowhand (cowherd?) also make yourself look bigger, but try not to wave your hands about alarmingly. Not so much noise that they become spooked, but enough to give you time for a rapid & controlled exit, whilst they try to work out just what the hell you are.
Thinking herding noises.
(I used this on my last Dartmoor trip for a couple of miles, in an area covered with impenetrable gorse thickets and narrow paths. A river was on one side. A steep rise on the other. The cows & their calves wouldn’t take the hint to veer away, despite my vectoring approaches. As this was the only way off the moor unless I turned back for a five mile detour, near the end of a long day I had little choice on this occasion.
4. Don’t (completely) turn your back or try to out sprint them. Back away steadily whilst ensuring you remain upright & prepared to move off to one side to avoid any confrontation.
5. Keep an eye out for all potential exit routes, moving well around any herd where possible. Remember that most of the boundary hedgerows will be hiding barbed wire. Its meant to prevent the escape of large curious animals. That works the same where you are concerned as well.
Its not a good time to find this out when entangled in this as part of any rapid exit.
Remember Steve McQueen in the Great Escape?
6. If it does come to a close up encounter I'm told a hard slap across the snout will work wonders.
Personally I've not test this particular tip. Not do I ever intend to get into a situation where I need to test the hypothesis.
If someone slapped me across the snout I’d tend to thrash about a fair bit, or take it as an attack. But quite what a 1/2 ton beast may do …..?
7. Finally (or should this be firstly?) if in doubt make a detour to avoid crossing the field.
I'm not too proud to admit I've done this on many occasions where cows/horses have shown rather too much interest in my presence before I've even entered the field.
This is one circumstance where Flight before Fight is A Good Thing
Any more tips - leave a comment please.Labels: nature
Sunday, August 23
Ups & Downs of an Outdoor Slacker
Its been a weird sort of year so far.
With an impending 50th birthday due in 2009 I’d originally planned to celebrate with something special. A low reservation place for the 2009 TGO Challenge put paid to the obvious solution, whilst work commitments meant that most of my spare thinking time was instead spent in a semi-vegative state of recovery.
Once clear of the immediate work pressures I re-kick started myself with a trip to Dartmoor (Hot!) That was swiftly followed up a month later with a visit to the Lakes (Wet!)
Amazed I'd found the time & personal energy reserves to get Things Outdoorsy moving successfully once more, and so early in the year (always a difficulty after the long darkness of wintertime) I went for three in a row with a trip to Wales a little more than a month later, just in time to saviour warm long days on hills in that pre-holiday period.
Well that was the plan. Matters of a personal nature meant that real life intruded into my 2009 winning streak. The trip never came off with a decision to remain near to family & home.
Now, as I watch the summer evenings darken earlier each day, and the blackberries & acorns swell alarmingly amongst their foliage, I see the opportunities for 2009 are slipping steadily away.
The 'personal concern' is drawing to a rather tangled conclusion, ensnaring all involved, but still requiring my on-hand assistant & support.
And as if to compensate, work matters, relatively quiescent for some months, are again threatening to soak up mental energy better directed towards planning some impromptu trips in the Autumn.
As I said at the top of this piece, its been a weird sort of year so far.
Wonder what 2009 has left to throw my way?
Bring it on
Tuesday, August 18
Google Chrome - Reprise
Google Chrome
One plus of my recent viral infections is that I finally moved away from IE8
One pc is now happily running Firefox, which I'm slowly getting to like.
The other is on Google Chrome - and what a whizzy little beast it is. Worth checking out if you (like me) find yourself impatiently waiting for pages to load
Whoosh.
One slight drawback
I like Google Chrome. But GC doesn't seem to like this blog - the font size (as Geoff flagged to me some time ago) goes Very Strange At Times.
But now I'm using GC I'll try to nip that one in the bud on future posts.
Monday, August 17
A Quick One
So why the news blackout from JH Enterprises?
Perhaps some momentous backpacking trip to report.
Maybe even an extended period of kit testing?
No such luck.
Without going into too much (monotonous) detail let me just leave you with a few words to make up your own version of events
MALWARE
VIRUS
PIGGIN
GIT
AGAIN
WORK
SLEEP
SPYWARE
NOOOOOOOOOO
Sometimes I hate PCs
Doh!
Sometimes
Tuesday, August 11
MRT Rescue. Addictive. Discuss.
It would certainly seem so for one hapless individual requiring MRT assistance for the second year in a row.
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Apologies for any inconvenience - normal service will be resumed once I've dissuaded the idiot to go away
Walkers & Cattle - Advice
The Enemy #1 - The Cow
Genetically over engineered over many centuries into a meat & milk provider. Typically two tone in colour. Heavy nasal drooling at one end. And a different sort of drooling at the other.
If in doubt carefully use a scratch & sniff test to quickly distinguish the key differences. Try not to lick your fingers afterwards.
The Enemy #2 - The Bullock
The juvenile male. Often identified by a tendency to unexpectedly demonstrate their sexual awakening by attempting to mount each other. Often repeatedly. Despite mixed success.
Intensely curious and prone to rapidly cover a field's length seconds after you've strayed within the barb wire/electrified boundary fence fortification.
The Owner - The Cattle Farmer
Some believe this to be a mix of the two genres. Often distinguished by the use of green wellingtons, dung coloured (typically blue) overalls, & a loud greeting call "Gerroff-my-land-you-townies".
Well ok I may be guilty of ever egging those descriptions a little.
Except for the green wellies.
But more seriously today's BBC reports have hi-lighted certain dangers associated with these usually tranquil beasts (I meant the cows by the way)
Beware of cows with their calves. Especially if you encounter them whilst accompanied by a dog.
Personally, even when not dog accompanied, I have a tendency to avoid any beast weighing in excess of 1/2 ton and capable of short bursts of speed in my general direction. No matter what its motivation may be.
The NFU advice has been issued as a result of the deaths of 3 walkers in 3 months.
Their advice to walkers
"if you have a dog with you, keep it under close control, but do not hang on to it should a cow or bull start acting aggressively. If you feel threatened, just carry on as normal, do not run, move to the edge of the field and if possible find another way round the field, returning to the original path as soon as is possible. And remember to close the gate".
(I love that mention of the gate. A good idea to prevent yet another headlong chase down the next field, but at the same time rather a recognisable farmy piece of advice)
The main problem for those of not familiar with bovine nature - what is aggressive behaviour?
Most cattle will wander over to a stile if they spot a walker. After all chewing cud and trying to mount your brothers can becomes tedious after a few weeks of such wild experiences.
I regularly walk across a large open expanse of common land watching the behaviour of cattle.
Based, I assume on their previous encounters, a few cattle will hang back from the main herd, effectively acting as scouts. These will initiate a rapid move towards the cause of any disquiet, bringing the rest of the herd cavorting behind them, feet drumming hard.
Not a pleasant prospect if you happen to be that cause.
Unfortunately the latest victim was a farmer. But back at the Royal Welsh Show in July the FUW (think NFU Wales) was quoted as saying that "Cases of potentially-deadly stampeding cattle unwittingly spooked by dog walkers are almost certainly set to rise"
(Lets ignore the comment "In part it was due to cash-strapped "townies" holidaying in the UK at a time of recession and heading for the countryside to relax")
Here's my advice, based on years of experience using farm paths. Its personal, so make up your own mind at your own risk.
1. Don’t keep the dog on a lead, but do keep it under control at all times.
If its not sufficiently well trained to stay to heel, or be sent away, you really shouldn't be out with it amongst farm animals.
2. By all means carry a stout stick. But as most people, including myself, do not carry one try picking up a few small stones (not rocks!) before entering a field.
It’s a last ditch deterrent. Better a few stings on a cow's thick hide, and a potential dressing down from a farmer, than being knocked over & injured by a fast moving herd.
3. If the beasts move towards you, make loud single syllable noises, such as they'd expect from the cowhand (cowherd?) also make yourself look bigger, but try not to wave your hands about alarmingly. Not so much noise that they become spooked, but enough to give you time for a rapid & controlled exit, whilst they try to work out just what the hell you are.
Thinking herding noises.
(I used this on my last Dartmoor trip for a couple of miles, in an area covered with impenetrable gorse thickets and narrow paths. A river was on one side. A steep rise on the other. The cows & their calves wouldn’t take the hint to veer away, despite my vectoring approaches. As this was the only way off the moor unless I turned back for a five mile detour, near the end of a long day I had little choice on this occasion.
4. Don’t (completely) turn your back or try to out sprint them. Back away steadily whilst ensuring you remain upright & prepared to move off to one side to avoid any confrontation.
5. Keep an eye out for all potential exit routes, moving well around any herd where possible. Remember that most of the boundary hedgerows will be hiding barbed wire. Its meant to prevent the escape of large curious animals. That works the same where you are concerned as well.
Its not a good time to find this out when entangled in this as part of any rapid exit.
Remember Steve McQueen in the Great Escape?
6. If it does come to a close up encounter I'm told a hard slap across the snout will work wonders.
Personally I've not test this particular tip. Not do I ever intend to get into a situation where I need to test the hypothesis.
If someone slapped me across the snout I’d tend to thrash about a fair bit, or take it as an attack. But quite what a 1/2 ton beast may do …..?
7. Finally (or should this be firstly?) if in doubt make a detour to avoid crossing the field.
I'm not too proud to admit I've done this on many occasions where cows/horses have shown rather too much interest in my presence before I've even entered the field.
This is one circumstance where Flight before Fight is A Good Thing
Any more tips - leave a comment please.Labels: nature
Sunday, August 23
Ups & Downs of an Outdoor Slacker
Its been a weird sort of year so far.
With an impending 50th birthday due in 2009 I’d originally planned to celebrate with something special. A low reservation place for the 2009 TGO Challenge put paid to the obvious solution, whilst work commitments meant that most of my spare thinking time was instead spent in a semi-vegative state of recovery.
Once clear of the immediate work pressures I re-kick started myself with a trip to Dartmoor (Hot!) That was swiftly followed up a month later with a visit to the Lakes (Wet!)
Amazed I'd found the time & personal energy reserves to get Things Outdoorsy moving successfully once more, and so early in the year (always a difficulty after the long darkness of wintertime) I went for three in a row with a trip to Wales a little more than a month later, just in time to saviour warm long days on hills in that pre-holiday period.
Well that was the plan. Matters of a personal nature meant that real life intruded into my 2009 winning streak. The trip never came off with a decision to remain near to family & home.
Now, as I watch the summer evenings darken earlier each day, and the blackberries & acorns swell alarmingly amongst their foliage, I see the opportunities for 2009 are slipping steadily away.
The 'personal concern' is drawing to a rather tangled conclusion, ensnaring all involved, but still requiring my on-hand assistant & support.
And as if to compensate, work matters, relatively quiescent for some months, are again threatening to soak up mental energy better directed towards planning some impromptu trips in the Autumn.
As I said at the top of this piece, its been a weird sort of year so far.
Wonder what 2009 has left to throw my way?
Bring it on
Tuesday, August 18
Google Chrome - Reprise
Google Chrome
One plus of my recent viral infections is that I finally moved away from IE8
One pc is now happily running Firefox, which I'm slowly getting to like.
The other is on Google Chrome - and what a whizzy little beast it is. Worth checking out if you (like me) find yourself impatiently waiting for pages to load
Whoosh.
One slight drawback
I like Google Chrome. But GC doesn't seem to like this blog - the font size (as Geoff flagged to me some time ago) goes Very Strange At Times.
But now I'm using GC I'll try to nip that one in the bud on future posts.
Monday, August 17
A Quick One
So why the news blackout from JH Enterprises?
Perhaps some momentous backpacking trip to report.
Maybe even an extended period of kit testing?
No such luck.
Without going into too much (monotonous) detail let me just leave you with a few words to make up your own version of events
MALWARE
VIRUS
PIGGIN
GIT
AGAIN
WORK
SLEEP
SPYWARE
NOOOOOOOOOO
Sometimes I hate PCs
Doh!
Sometimes
Tuesday, August 11
MRT Rescue. Addictive. Discuss.
It would certainly seem so for one hapless individual requiring MRT assistance for the second year in a row.
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Genetically over engineered over many centuries into a meat & milk provider. Typically two tone in colour. Heavy nasal drooling at one end. And a different sort of drooling at the other.
If in doubt carefully use a scratch & sniff test to quickly distinguish the key differences. Try not to lick your fingers afterwards.
The Enemy #2 - The Bullock
The juvenile male. Often identified by a tendency to unexpectedly demonstrate their sexual awakening by attempting to mount each other. Often repeatedly. Despite mixed success.
Intensely curious and prone to rapidly cover a field's length seconds after you've strayed within the barb wire/electrified boundary fence fortification.
The Owner - The Cattle Farmer
Some believe this to be a mix of the two genres. Often distinguished by the use of green wellingtons, dung coloured (typically blue) overalls, & a loud greeting call "Gerroff-my-land-you-townies".
Well ok I may be guilty of ever egging those descriptions a little.
Except for the green wellies.
But more seriously today's BBC reports have hi-lighted certain dangers associated with these usually tranquil beasts (I meant the cows by the way)
Beware of cows with their calves. Especially if you encounter them whilst accompanied by a dog.
Personally, even when not dog accompanied, I have a tendency to avoid any beast weighing in excess of 1/2 ton and capable of short bursts of speed in my general direction. No matter what its motivation may be.
The NFU advice has been issued as a result of the deaths of 3 walkers in 3 months.
Their advice to walkers
"if you have a dog with you, keep it under close control, but do not hang on to it should a cow or bull start acting aggressively. If you feel threatened, just carry on as normal, do not run, move to the edge of the field and if possible find another way round the field, returning to the original path as soon as is possible. And remember to close the gate".
(I love that mention of the gate. A good idea to prevent yet another headlong chase down the next field, but at the same time rather a recognisable farmy piece of advice)
The main problem for those of not familiar with bovine nature - what is aggressive behaviour?
Most cattle will wander over to a stile if they spot a walker. After all chewing cud and trying to mount your brothers can becomes tedious after a few weeks of such wild experiences.
I regularly walk across a large open expanse of common land watching the behaviour of cattle.
Based, I assume on their previous encounters, a few cattle will hang back from the main herd, effectively acting as scouts. These will initiate a rapid move towards the cause of any disquiet, bringing the rest of the herd cavorting behind them, feet drumming hard.
Not a pleasant prospect if you happen to be that cause.
Unfortunately the latest victim was a farmer. But back at the Royal Welsh Show in July the FUW (think NFU Wales) was quoted as saying that "Cases of potentially-deadly stampeding cattle unwittingly spooked by dog walkers are almost certainly set to rise"
(Lets ignore the comment "In part it was due to cash-strapped "townies" holidaying in the UK at a time of recession and heading for the countryside to relax")
Here's my advice, based on years of experience using farm paths. Its personal, so make up your own mind at your own risk.
1. Don’t keep the dog on a lead, but do keep it under control at all times.
If its not sufficiently well trained to stay to heel, or be sent away, you really shouldn't be out with it amongst farm animals.
2. By all means carry a stout stick. But as most people, including myself, do not carry one try picking up a few small stones (not rocks!) before entering a field.
It’s a last ditch deterrent. Better a few stings on a cow's thick hide, and a potential dressing down from a farmer, than being knocked over & injured by a fast moving herd.
3. If the beasts move towards you, make loud single syllable noises, such as they'd expect from the cowhand (cowherd?) also make yourself look bigger, but try not to wave your hands about alarmingly. Not so much noise that they become spooked, but enough to give you time for a rapid & controlled exit, whilst they try to work out just what the hell you are.
Thinking herding noises.
(I used this on my last Dartmoor trip for a couple of miles, in an area covered with impenetrable gorse thickets and narrow paths. A river was on one side. A steep rise on the other. The cows & their calves wouldn’t take the hint to veer away, despite my vectoring approaches. As this was the only way off the moor unless I turned back for a five mile detour, near the end of a long day I had little choice on this occasion.
4. Don’t (completely) turn your back or try to out sprint them. Back away steadily whilst ensuring you remain upright & prepared to move off to one side to avoid any confrontation.
5. Keep an eye out for all potential exit routes, moving well around any herd where possible. Remember that most of the boundary hedgerows will be hiding barbed wire. Its meant to prevent the escape of large curious animals. That works the same where you are concerned as well.
Its not a good time to find this out when entangled in this as part of any rapid exit.
Remember Steve McQueen in the Great Escape?
6. If it does come to a close up encounter I'm told a hard slap across the snout will work wonders.
Personally I've not test this particular tip. Not do I ever intend to get into a situation where I need to test the hypothesis.
If someone slapped me across the snout I’d tend to thrash about a fair bit, or take it as an attack. But quite what a 1/2 ton beast may do …..?
7. Finally (or should this be firstly?) if in doubt make a detour to avoid crossing the field.
I'm not too proud to admit I've done this on many occasions where cows/horses have shown rather too much interest in my presence before I've even entered the field.
This is one circumstance where Flight before Fight is A Good Thing
Any more tips - leave a comment please.
Labels: nature
Ups & Downs of an Outdoor Slacker
Its been a weird sort of year so far.
With an impending 50th birthday due in 2009 I’d originally planned to celebrate with something special. A low reservation place for the 2009 TGO Challenge put paid to the obvious solution, whilst work commitments meant that most of my spare thinking time was instead spent in a semi-vegative state of recovery.
Once clear of the immediate work pressures I re-kick started myself with a trip to Dartmoor (Hot!) That was swiftly followed up a month later with a visit to the Lakes (Wet!)
Amazed I'd found the time & personal energy reserves to get Things Outdoorsy moving successfully once more, and so early in the year (always a difficulty after the long darkness of wintertime) I went for three in a row with a trip to Wales a little more than a month later, just in time to saviour warm long days on hills in that pre-holiday period.
Well that was the plan. Matters of a personal nature meant that real life intruded into my 2009 winning streak. The trip never came off with a decision to remain near to family & home.
Now, as I watch the summer evenings darken earlier each day, and the blackberries & acorns swell alarmingly amongst their foliage, I see the opportunities for 2009 are slipping steadily away.
The 'personal concern' is drawing to a rather tangled conclusion, ensnaring all involved, but still requiring my on-hand assistant & support.
And as if to compensate, work matters, relatively quiescent for some months, are again threatening to soak up mental energy better directed towards planning some impromptu trips in the Autumn.
As I said at the top of this piece, its been a weird sort of year so far.
Wonder what 2009 has left to throw my way?
Bring it on
Tuesday, August 18
Google Chrome - Reprise
Google Chrome
One plus of my recent viral infections is that I finally moved away from IE8
One pc is now happily running Firefox, which I'm slowly getting to like.
The other is on Google Chrome - and what a whizzy little beast it is. Worth checking out if you (like me) find yourself impatiently waiting for pages to load
Whoosh.
One slight drawback
I like Google Chrome. But GC doesn't seem to like this blog - the font size (as Geoff flagged to me some time ago) goes Very Strange At Times.
But now I'm using GC I'll try to nip that one in the bud on future posts.
Monday, August 17
A Quick One
So why the news blackout from JH Enterprises?
Perhaps some momentous backpacking trip to report.
Maybe even an extended period of kit testing?
No such luck.
Without going into too much (monotonous) detail let me just leave you with a few words to make up your own version of events
MALWARE
VIRUS
PIGGIN
GIT
AGAIN
WORK
SLEEP
SPYWARE
NOOOOOOOOOO
Sometimes I hate PCs
Doh!
Sometimes
Tuesday, August 11
MRT Rescue. Addictive. Discuss.
It would certainly seem so for one hapless individual requiring MRT assistance for the second year in a row.
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
With an impending 50th birthday due in 2009 I’d originally planned to celebrate with something special. A low reservation place for the 2009 TGO Challenge put paid to the obvious solution, whilst work commitments meant that most of my spare thinking time was instead spent in a semi-vegative state of recovery.
Once clear of the immediate work pressures I re-kick started myself with a trip to Dartmoor (Hot!) That was swiftly followed up a month later with a visit to the Lakes (Wet!)
Amazed I'd found the time & personal energy reserves to get Things Outdoorsy moving successfully once more, and so early in the year (always a difficulty after the long darkness of wintertime) I went for three in a row with a trip to Wales a little more than a month later, just in time to saviour warm long days on hills in that pre-holiday period.
Well that was the plan. Matters of a personal nature meant that real life intruded into my 2009 winning streak. The trip never came off with a decision to remain near to family & home.
Now, as I watch the summer evenings darken earlier each day, and the blackberries & acorns swell alarmingly amongst their foliage, I see the opportunities for 2009 are slipping steadily away.
The 'personal concern' is drawing to a rather tangled conclusion, ensnaring all involved, but still requiring my on-hand assistant & support.
And as if to compensate, work matters, relatively quiescent for some months, are again threatening to soak up mental energy better directed towards planning some impromptu trips in the Autumn.
As I said at the top of this piece, its been a weird sort of year so far.
Wonder what 2009 has left to throw my way?
Bring it on
Google Chrome - Reprise
Google Chrome
One plus of my recent viral infections is that I finally moved away from IE8
One pc is now happily running Firefox, which I'm slowly getting to like.
The other is on Google Chrome - and what a whizzy little beast it is. Worth checking out if you (like me) find yourself impatiently waiting for pages to load
Whoosh.
One slight drawback
I like Google Chrome. But GC doesn't seem to like this blog - the font size (as Geoff flagged to me some time ago) goes Very Strange At Times.
But now I'm using GC I'll try to nip that one in the bud on future posts.
Monday, August 17
A Quick One
So why the news blackout from JH Enterprises?
Perhaps some momentous backpacking trip to report.
Maybe even an extended period of kit testing?
No such luck.
Without going into too much (monotonous) detail let me just leave you with a few words to make up your own version of events
MALWARE
VIRUS
PIGGIN
GIT
AGAIN
WORK
SLEEP
SPYWARE
NOOOOOOOOOO
Sometimes I hate PCs
Doh!
Sometimes
Tuesday, August 11
MRT Rescue. Addictive. Discuss.
It would certainly seem so for one hapless individual requiring MRT assistance for the second year in a row.
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Google Chrome
One plus of my recent viral infections is that I finally moved away from IE8
One pc is now happily running Firefox, which I'm slowly getting to like.
The other is on Google Chrome - and what a whizzy little beast it is. Worth checking out if you (like me) find yourself impatiently waiting for pages to load
Whoosh.
One slight drawback
I like Google Chrome. But GC doesn't seem to like this blog - the font size (as Geoff flagged to me some time ago) goes Very Strange At Times.
But now I'm using GC I'll try to nip that one in the bud on future posts.
Monday, August 17
A Quick One
So why the news blackout from JH Enterprises?
Perhaps some momentous backpacking trip to report.
Maybe even an extended period of kit testing?
No such luck.
Without going into too much (monotonous) detail let me just leave you with a few words to make up your own version of events
MALWARE
VIRUS
PIGGIN
GIT
AGAIN
WORK
SLEEP
SPYWARE
NOOOOOOOOOO
Sometimes I hate PCs
Doh!
Sometimes
Tuesday, August 11
MRT Rescue. Addictive. Discuss.
It would certainly seem so for one hapless individual requiring MRT assistance for the second year in a row.
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
One pc is now happily running Firefox, which I'm slowly getting to like.
The other is on Google Chrome - and what a whizzy little beast it is. Worth checking out if you (like me) find yourself impatiently waiting for pages to load
Whoosh.
One slight drawback
I like Google Chrome. But GC doesn't seem to like this blog - the font size (as Geoff flagged to me some time ago) goes Very Strange At Times.
But now I'm using GC I'll try to nip that one in the bud on future posts.
A Quick One
So why the news blackout from JH Enterprises?
Perhaps some momentous backpacking trip to report.
Maybe even an extended period of kit testing?
No such luck.
Without going into too much (monotonous) detail let me just leave you with a few words to make up your own version of events
MALWARE
VIRUS
PIGGIN
GIT
AGAIN
WORK
SLEEP
SPYWARE
NOOOOOOOOOO
Sometimes I hate PCs
Doh!
Sometimes
Tuesday, August 11
MRT Rescue. Addictive. Discuss.
It would certainly seem so for one hapless individual requiring MRT assistance for the second year in a row.
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Perhaps some momentous backpacking trip to report.
Maybe even an extended period of kit testing?
No such luck.
Without going into too much (monotonous) detail let me just leave you with a few words to make up your own version of events
MALWARE
VIRUS
PIGGIN
GIT
AGAIN
WORK
SLEEP
SPYWARE
NOOOOOOOOOO
Sometimes I hate PCs
Doh!
Sometimes
MRT Rescue. Addictive. Discuss.
It would certainly seem so for one hapless individual requiring MRT assistance for the second year in a row.
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
A pity he was leading a walking group of 23 people on Scafell Pike - some "wearing t-shirts and trainers"
Isn't there an ancient Westmorland statute that deters the in-breeding of village idiots?
Perhaps it doesn't apply to In-comers.
Hey! Give me six!
Labels: Lake District, media, Mountain Rescue Team(MRT)
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
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
A crossing of paths
Every so often I discuss some of the simpler aspects of backpacking & wildcamping with a friend.
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
He still doesn't quite get it.
And why should he?
His concept of A Walk is the distance betwixt pub & the taxi rank. His camping experience, of which he has a long history, still means that over the weekend he used a duvet in the back of a 4x4 for a night's kip. Cooking, well that would be the nearest take-away. And as for re hydration the pub features predominantly on his list of possible solutions.
And it’s a very very short list.
Well one item to be strictly accurate.
Along the way I've tried to persuade him of the beneficial experience and creature comforts that camping, properly approached, will provide.
But he's having none of it. He dislikes camping except as a means to attend outdoor, non-urban, events. And despite my offers to loan kit or demonstrate the sort of budget gear available these days, he remains highly resistant to change. Or to the recognition of how much easier his outdoor time could be.
I was reminded of this when I picked up a magazine over the weekend.
Pieces on Buff ("double use, it cuts down on the amount of clothing required"), comparison tests on two man tents (won by Lightwave's G1 Ion), sleeping bags (Mountain Hardware's Lamina 20), sleeping mats (Neoair) & stoves (MSR Whisperlite) along with recommendations for Freeloader Pro, Snow Peak titanium spork, Petzl Tikka Plus head torch & a couple of articles on Setting Up Camp and Where To Camp.
All this, in a motorcycling magazine - September's Ride - sister publication of Trail Mag.
It’s the sort of magazine he'd read. And maybe he might start getting the message. Then again perhaps he will always remain a lost cause, unwilling to challenge change.
As I jot this down I've been struck that most of my long term interests over the years (motorcycling, fishing & backpacking) have all included the need for self supported overnight stays, a facility to stay warm/dry on the journey, & access to food & fluid on my own terms.
Its only now, looking back over those years since my early teens, that I see this common thread. That ability to comfortably live outdoors, often in out of the way spots, with a degree of easy enjoyment & personal fulfillment.
The knowledge, aptitude & challenges that each pursuit demand became so much simpler when built on the firm bedrock of personal experience brought over from other areas of my life.
And in turn the lessons learnt in one area are often re-applied elsewhere.
On reflection it really hasn’t seemed to matter how I get There, or what I was There to do, I've subconsciously been moved to sleep outdoors, and make my own, rather individual, way.
Now if I could only make turn it into a living one day!
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
Sunday, August 9
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
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
Jail break (cancelled)
Despite indications to the contrary I managed to keep my clothes & possessions free of unwanted intrusion.
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
Friday, August 7
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
After a wet Thursday the mud was knee deep in places - I've kept cleaner boots whilst crossing the worst that Dartmoor bogs could throw at me.
But two days of sunshine sorted that out.
Despite a huge turn out, the campsite area, although packed wasn't quite the usual cacophony I've come to expect of organised camping.
Even the 3am argument (I didn't mind you sharing my tent; But then you threw up inside it & went to sleep...You Bast...) had that air of humour being played out alongside the nocturnal mating sounds in the opposite direction from some young lady who seemed quite indecisive.
"No, no, no; Yes, yes, yes;" (quiet) "Yes, yes yes; No, no, no;" (quiet) .........I'm sure you get the idea.
Don't get that sort of entertainment out on the hills.
Well not as yet.
Ho hum. Back to ordinary life again.
OK. where has that gone to then?
A little entertainment whilst I'm out. Just don't ask me how I arrived at these clips.
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Thursday, August 6
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
My defence is that I was thinking of Darrens's unnatural interest with Buff headwear at the time.
This is definitely not safe for work!
Where as this is definitely not safe for Darren!
In the interests of science I've watched Clip 1 a number of times to identify how the trick is performed.
As for Clip 2 - my attention sort of wandered for some reason.
No idea why.
Labels: media, Miscellaneous
Tonight there's going to be a jail break?
Tomorrow I will be travelling up country for a couple of nights under canvas.
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
Wednesday, August 5
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
During this sojourn I expect to take in a few bands, cast admiring glances at many pieces of highly individual artwork & no doubt pick over the varied offerings from eager traders.
Along the way I should meet up with some old faces from around the country, and no doubt make gentle acquaintance of many new ones.
Sleep will be short. Mud will be thick. And I, for once, will be sharing my nights under canvas in the company of Mrs J (recently rechristened SlowRider)
To achieve this multifarious extravaganza we will each cock respective legs over our two wheeled transport & journey north along country roads & ancient ways.
But.
Somewhere north of Stow I expect to draw increasing attention from marked and unmarked police vehicles.
On arrival at our destination, as a member of the public attending an organised, secure & formally licensed entertainment I fully expect to have my lawful entrance challenged by the Police & most likely find both my person & my transport be subject to some form of search, or worse still dismantlement of my transport.
Some of said officials are likely to be visibly armed.
During this period basic camping kit such as my mini-Leatherman & titanium spork could be challenged & impounded without recourse (I am of course invited to lodge a formal complaint if such impoundment should happen to take place. Which doesn't help me cut of eat any cooked food over the weekend)
'What gives' do I hear you wonder? Perhaps, you may be asking 'How is this happening in the free and democratic English countryside, to an ordinary member of the public'?
Easy really - we're off to a motorcycle do. One that certain denizens of the Warwickshire Constabulary remain intent on despoiling, no matter what the status or background of those attending.
Of course they're will be some naughty folk around. There always are at any big event.
Whisper it gently but maybe my ears will be subjected to bad language, or even exhibitions of lewdness (hopefully female, although Mrs J seems to disagree with me on this point for some reason)
But it seems motorcycling in the UK still attracts the same badly tainted over reaction from certain sections of society, that I've been suffering from for 30+ years. Regularly declined service, or banned from pubs & other establishments. On one memorable occasion before I'd even dismounted in the pub car park on my first visit. The only light spot being the rather silly reasons given, if any politeness should happen to be shown.
No wonder I used to enjoy travelling abroad so very much where motorcyclists are treated as ..well... normal people.
Happily, being relatively unencumbered, any inconvenience shouldn't be too bad.
That is unless I get pulled for Road Traffic Act offences, summarily strip searched or the bike in some way unintentionally disabled. Luckily in such an event I can guarantee there will be a Police presence extremely near to hand. Maybe I could even get free board & lodging courtesy of said guardians.
I've varied & good experience of liaising with Police, as has Mrs J during her day to day employment. We have both found it easy to build mutual relationships of trust as you'd expect. The Police & the Society they safeguard have to have such an agreement for the relationship to prosper.
So why, at this precise moment, do I find myself already hunkering down into that prickling bunker mentality, a recall from youthful rebellious teenage times.
Today I arrived home from work dressed in collar & tie, a reputable member of society.
Tomorrow, garbed in motorcycle leathers I anticipate treatment that if it happened on the High Street would be likely to incite a riot.
I'm definitely not anti-police.
But ask me again on Sunday, and I'll see how I feel then.
Perhaps it's all a dream?
TGO Magazine - September
Arriving home this evening I found the latest copy of TGO Magazine. These days that's the only monthly walking mag subscription I still keep going.
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.Labels: TGO Magazine
Sunday, August 2
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Excellent pieces from Andy Stothert & the ever dependable Chris Townsend reflecting on the mental side of being out on the hills alone. Chris in particular mirrors many of my own feelings on the subject of solo backpacking, but regrettably his thoughts are drawn to a premature close after a only page & a bit.
I'm so used to the attraction of my own solitary path it always surprises me when I meet comments along the lines of "I couldn't do that.." or "Don't you find it lonely/scary/dangerous".
Simple answer - No.
I assess my risks, and act accordingly.
But am I so alone (no pun intended) in preferring a solo approach?
I know there's a few of my fellow Bloggers (Dawn for example) that seek similar escape from the mass of humanity & the detritus that seems to come with it. But in general outdoor activity and groups tend to go together.
Which always seems a shame to me.
There's things I've seen as I quietly move over the natural landscape that have had more of a deep impact than anything I've ever had whilst in a group. Indeed, at times a group would have meant that experience didn't happen, by the very nature of the group numbers, associated noise, and the various distractions of those nearby.
I entered this world alone. Undoubtedly I'll be leaving it the same way. There may be others in the vicinity at such times (Hi Mum!); But as a self aware individual consciousness that ability to exist unaided is one I care to naturally saviour.
For many, it would seem, that's a step too far.
Try it sometime. You might just find you like it once you get the taste.
Labels: TGO Magazine
Its Summer? No its Autumn? Just take your pick
An early Sunday start prepping two motorcycles ready for a long weekend at a Well Known Event (but more on that later in the week perhaps)
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Whilst I'm on the topic, when did the centre-stand become surplus to requirement? Trying single handed to get each bike on a paddock stand, for simple chain maintenance (a five minute job) became a heart stopping half hour if the end result wasn't to be one's pride and joy lying lifeless on its side after toppling over during the stand/mounting process.
Since when did a centre stand become a luxury item?
So imagine my joy when I wandered back indoors only to find my pc screen infected with a rather nasty Trojan virus which required some major low level surgery to eradicate.
And yes, I do use current Firewall & Anti-Virus packages.
Two hours later that was sorted, leaving many more hours to run some alternative malware/spyware software and complete a low level purge.
Time for a walk then? More like essential.
Out to Burbush in the New Forest for a bit of contemplative R&R, accompanied by a MP3 player of very loud rock music. Always works well when I'm in an anti-social frame of mind.
Predictably, given the summer season, the rural back roads were busy & the New Forest car park a seething mass of humanity. Why does the term 'tourist on holiday' seem to require leaving their brain & common sense in a small pail by the holiday accommodation's front door each day?
Oh well - a quiet route was essential today, far away from marked paths and over publicised guidebook routes.
A success in that I saw no-one else once I'd left the vicinity of the car park. Sort of a success in a spur of the moment decision to try something a little more physically challenging by hopping off the back of my first route to link up with a longer outlying circuit.
It was via bog land. It wasn't any surprise. I know the land here abouts is liable to be undercut by narrow rivulets of flowing water, especially after rain. Adopting the trusted bog hop gait that Darren knows so well I quickly crossed onto the lower slopes of the far valley side, and picked up a pony track up to the pine topped mount ahead, in which nestled a World War II searchlight emplacement.
All going spiffing so far. A good workout over rough ground, much akin to Dartmoor in some places, and at a fast pace. Dog by my side, we moved ever onwards.
As I followed the ridge I was watching the boggy land below looking for a better track to cut across to rejoin the original route. An excellent & quiet circular if it wasn't for 400m of path crossing a major watershed plateau. Even the sinking of various peat and straw bales a few years earlier had failed to turn it into better than an inevitable paddle even during drought conditions. So its always been a bugbear of mine to find someway to hop this impassable section without getting a guaranteed soaking.
Today I thought I had cracked it. Spotting a clear pony track down I headed to the valley for a short 200m traverse to the far slope.
Along the way my path meandered by a solitary blackberry bush, already full of ripe fruit. A pause briefly to saviour a couple of large juicy berries unadulterated by proximity to car or human activity. Its going to be a bumper crop this year.
But hang on - doesn't ripe fruit signify the End of The Summer. A sign that Autumn's days are announcing their turn to become the seasonal host?
Maybe. Personally I'm yet to get my head around the fact its Summer, even as the evenings drawn in with each dusk arriving earlier than the previous one.
Onwards then into what turned out to be one of the worst pieces of broken ground I've walked over for some time. No make that walked through. Or maybe even under.
Initially hopping from tussock to tussock I turned to make sure Dog was ok. He'd disappeared. Nope there he was, the only sign of his passage the top of long sedge grasses moving, as he followed a track deep deep down in the undergrowth.
I persevered. Carefully. This was ankle snapping territory. The trusted bog hop gait, so suavely demonstrated not half an hour before soon became an arm whirling, keep the balance, plummet forward until finally the inevitable happened.
My foot went into a pool of water, far below and out of sight, with the result - a boot filled with a tantalising mixture of rain water and Grade A fresh bog land mulch (and all free of charge)
Bugger - this is the sort of incident that rarely happens to me. Even then it should be in some wild and harsh environment. Not 50m from the dry & well worn path in front of me.
I finished the rest of the walk with a noticeable squelch each time my right foot hit the deck. But I had to smile along the way.
Putting the valley's water levels down to this summer's rainfall level I mentally marked the route as passable, but with care and at the right time of the year.
So why, when I came to one of the Forest's permanent pool of standing water was it's level 2-3m below its normal mark; Foreshore mud clearly visible? A typical mid summer scene in fact.
Is this still a wet Summer this year? Or maybe a warm season with periods of rainfall that have coloured the general perception of inclement weather.
Or has the high season already passed, leaving us to face an early Autumn? One that indicates the
non Winter season is now one extended period of warm & occasionally wet weather?
Well I don't know, and I doubt whether the Met Office are truly qualified these days to proffer an opinion that anyone would trust.
I squelched my way back into the typical Soddam & Gomorrah scene surrounding the car park. As I started homewards to renew battle with a pc clean-up, I skirted Forest ponies obstructing the main access routes & road. Their particular season in full swing having relearnt the quickest way to get Oohs & Aahs from day trippers and more relevantly their free handouts.
I really need to get away soon!
Labels: nature, New Forest, walks
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
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
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
