Devoran Scouts prepare for the Ten Tors (From Falmouth Packet)

Devoran Scouts prepare for the Ten Tors

1:23pm Monday 27th April 2009

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Since November, 34 youngsters from Falmouth, Devoran, Truro, Lanner, Probus and Newquay have been preparing for Ten Tors.

They have followed an intensive training programme, including team-building, navigation, route planning, camping skills, emergency procedures, survival skills, first aid and fitness training. Physical training started in Penwith, moved on to Bodmin Moor and they are now nearing the end of a series of two-day hikes every other weekend on Dartmoor, camping out on the moor in all weathers, ready for the Event on May 9-10.

Ten Tors is a challenging expedition for 2,400 young people from across the country, which takes place on Dartmoor each year in May. In teams of six, 14- and 15-year olds walk a 35-mile route, 16- & 17-years olds a 45-mile route and 18-20-year olds a 55-mile route. They start walking at 7am on Saturday, carrying everything they need to survive the hostile environment. After camping ‘wild’ on the moor and visiting the ten tors specified on their route, their challenge is to cross the finishing line by 17:00 on Sunday to receive their medals and team certificates.

These young people, some of whom are only 13, have shown great commitment, determination and courage to endure the challenging terrain and extremes of climate Dartmoor offers – sunshine, freezing cold, thick mist, strong winds, snow and driving rain can all be experienced in one weekend!

“Ten Tors is an opportunity for young people from different groups and backgrounds to meet and, during training and the Event, work as part of a team, developing their independence, strength of character and determination to succeed. Previous participants have been inspired to seek further challenges, including Operation Raleigh, the British Schools Exploring Society Expeditions and the Tall Ships race. Two of the Devoran 45-mile team are off to the Himalayas this summer with BSES and another is hoping to go next year,” said John Parham, team manager.

The Ten Tors Explorer Unit, based in Devoran, facilitates and co-ordinates the training of a number of Scout Groups from across mid-Cornwall, as well as giving youngsters, not in Scouts, the chance to do Ten Tors. 18th Turo and 1st Newquay Scouts each have a 35-mle team and Devoran has a 35- and 45-mile teams.

“We have received generous support from a number of local businesses and organisations, including Penrose Outdoors, A&P Falmouth, Outback Trading, King Harry Ferry Co., MacSalvors, Skinners Brewery, Vospers, the Belling Charitable Trust, Devoran School, Devoran Church and Owen Brains of Community Assisted Projects.

“We would be pleased to hear from anyone interested in Ten Tors and the tremendous benefits it offers young people, or anyone who might consider sponsoring or supporting the Unit this year or in the future.”

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