Learning to navigate course
Sunday 29th February 2004
Thirteen of us (was this a significant number?) signed up to this course which was given by Brian, an experienced volunteer Dartmoor Guide at the High Moorland Visitor Centre, Princetown. There were no real problems, although the weather was cold enough (even with bright sunshine) that small patches of snow were left lying on the shady side of the Tors.
We had a very interesting theory session where Brian explained arcane subjects
such as the National Grid – no, NOT about electricity, but about how the country is assumed to be flat and divided up into squares (the grid) so you can give out references and tell others where you are in the middle of nowhere (sometimes essential!). I had assumed that map references were longitude and latitude like at sea, but soon found out that it’s not so on land, although compass bearings are taken in much the same way. We also covered how to read symbols on maps and other enlightening subjects, so interesting that we had to eat lunch while still listening!
By one thirty, we were heading for the Tors behind the Plume of Feathers, armed with maps and compasses and our trusty Brian to make sure we used them correctly. The small groups found their way to the chosen destinations – with just a few unplanned detours (we didn’t understand the instructions, honest!) We were introduced to a First World War Rifle Range and found out how many paces we all individually did to 100 metres, which can be important in foggy conditions. We also stood on the top of Sharp Tor and were able to identify all the different Tors around. We ended up on a disused railway line and calculated how many minutes it would take to return to the car park.
It was a fascinating day and if you didn’t go you missed a real treat – as well as an education in survival skills for the Moor. Perhaps someone will arrange it again? We understand there are advanced courses! Seriously, I hope people will now feel empowered to put walks on the programme and not feel they have to be “experts”. Confidence with a little training goes a long way! Let's have a few new names on the programme with some different walks and areas this spring.
Heather A
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