CCF Easter Camp 2017

CCF Easter Camp, Halton, Lancaster

5-9 April 2017

The journey to the ferry terminal was unusually quiet, but that’s only to be expected with a 5:45 am start!  A pleasant sail and drive saw 30 cadets, male/female, army/navy, arrive at Halton Camp, just outside Lancaster, on the bank of the River Lune, mid-afternoon, but most importantly in time for dinner.  This was followed by briefings on the activities planned for the next few days.  These were to be run with the aid of a local outdoor pursuits centre, Borthwick Hall. Day one was a brilliant hike in the Yorkshire Dales.  Although it was cold, windy and a bit hazy at points it was a very interesting walk up Ingleborough peak.  It was great to see the limestone scenery of caves, swallow holes and limestone pavements.  Lunch was enjoyed on top with views to the Irish Sea and the famous Ribblehead Viaduct.  This was a challenging hike which gave the cadets a real sense of achievement.  However, they were too tired for any activities that night and got a bit of chillax time.

Over the next two days the cadets enjoyed a canoe trip on the Lancaster Canal, a leap of faith, tree climbing, bouldering and a low ropes challenge course over a small lake…nearly everyone stayed dry!  Many skills of teamwork and leadership were learned with many overcoming personal fears to rise to the various challenges.  As ever the outdoor centre staff were very complimentary about our cadets and their attitudes and standards.  Enjoy the accompanying photos which should give a flavour of the activities.  Well done to all involved.

R Spence