The Canoe-Camper #311 Winter 2018 by Canoe Camper Magazine

The Canoe-Camper Winter 2018

issue no 311

“It can always be said after the event, I wish I had done more, stayed longer, or even I would have done it that way, BUT THEN IT’S TOO LATE! I have done a few paddles with you guys and gals: good times good company and it were it not for dare I say Facebook (ouch) I could loose these contacts [from the club] ...I hope not? I try to think of a date we could all say yes to and nothing get in the way ,and think it’s here, at the egm, [where] I consider weir it is all going!” - Kevin Hague

T H E C A N O E C A M P I N G CLU B PRESIDENT: Jo Ledger

VICE PRESIDENTS: Dek Davie, Fred Hutt

SECTION COMMITTEE

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS CHAIRMAN, NATIONAL COUNCIL ADVISORY OFFICER Tim Wheeler, 3 Birch Close, Sprotborough, Doncaster, DN5 7RE Tel: 01302 645427 Email: chairman@canoecampingclub.co.uk VICE CHAIRMAN, NATIONAL COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE Graham Devenish, 13A Brunswick Place Hove, BN3 1ND Tel: 01273 821155 Email: vice@canoecampingclub.co.uk GENERAL SECRETARY/MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY (SITES OFFICER/WEBMASTER)/CHERTSEY CANOE SHEDS Fran Faulkner, 23 Somerville Road, Eton, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 6PB Tel: 01753 850122 Email: Secretary@canoecampingclub.co.uk HONORARY TREASURER Brian Hamer, 16 Teal Avenue, Poynton, Stockport, Cheshire,SK12 1JT Tel: 01625 879504 Email: Treasurer@canoecampingclub.co.uk 5TH EXEC MEMBER, ASSISTANT HERTS EA COORDINATOR Martin Gammage, 3 Garden House, Leahoe Gardens, Hertford, SG13 8BX Tel: 07964 995484 Email: exec@canoecampingclub.co.uk

COMMITTEE MEMBERS WATERWAYS OFFICER Kevin East, 7 Silesian Gardens, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 8SG Tel : 01932 562111 Email: waterways @canoecampingclub.co.uk EASTER MEET COORDINATOR Lester Stuart, 10 Redhills,Eccleshall, Stafford, ST21 6JW Tel: 01785 850826 Email: eastercoordinator@canoecampingclub.co.uk MAGAZINE EDITOR Josie Faulkner, 23 Somerville Road, Eton, Windsor, Berksire, SL4 6PB Tel: 07939244318 Email: magazine@canoecampingclub.co.uk DEE & NORTH WEST COORDINATOR Brian Hamer, 16 Teal Avenue, Poynton, Stockport, Cheshire, SK12 1JT Tel: 01625 879504 Email: DeeNW@canoecampingclub.co.uk ASSISTANT DEE & NW COORDINATOR Anneke Rowlinson, 1 Marshbrook Road, Urmston, Manchester, M41 7DU Tel: 0161 698 5410 Email: deenw2@canoecampingclub.co.uk HERTS & EAST ANGLIA COORDINATOR Pete Bradshaw, 53 Hillingdon Avenue, Sevenoaks, TN13 3RB Email: HertsEA@canoecampingclub.co.uk MIDLANDS COORDINATOR Simon Beeston 11 Elston Hall Lane, Bushbury, Wolverhampton, WV10 9HE Tel: 01902 653430 Email: Midlands@canoecampingclub.co.uk

SCOTLAND AND NORTH OF ENGLAND COORDINATOR Jon Hutt, Wyndford Lock, Castlecary, Bonnybridge, North Lanarkshire, FK4 2HW Tel: 01324 849629 Email: northandscotland@canoecampingclub.co.uk THAMES & SOUTH EAST COORDINATOR Robin Hickman, 32 Shepherds Way, Roffey, Horsham, W Sussex, RH12 4LS Tel: 01403 267244 Email: Thames@canoecampingclub.co.uk WEST COUNTRY COORDINATOR Ian Dagger, Pitts End, Wick Road, Bishop Sutton, Bristol, BS39 5XQ Tel: 01275 333211 Email: Westcountry@canoecampingclub.co.uk ASSISTANT HOLIDAY MEET COORDINATOR Andrew Roddham, 10 Gracious Street, Whittlesey Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE7 1AP Tel: 07771 646591 Email: holidaymeet2@canoecampingclub.co.uk CAMPING & CARAVANNING CLUB NATIONAL ADVISER Anne Dearling ARCHIVIST Janet Hales, 9 Strode Street, Egham, Surrey, TW20 9PT Tel: 01784 432 517 CANOE-CAMPING CLUB LIBRARY CURRENTLY WITH THAMES & SOUTH EAST

IN THIS ISSUE 1. WEIR TOO LATE? KEVIN HAGUE 2. CONTACTS

15. WINDSOR EGM IN 3 PARTS LESTER STUART

4.CHAIRMANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THWART & EDITORS LETTER

17. RUNS LIST 2018

5. EASTER MEET 2018 7. A TYPICAL WEEKEND WITH THE CLIB COLIN SOUTHWARD 9. THE SAGA OF THE BUSTED BOAT TIM WATSON

19. PADDLING THE WILD-ERNESS SUSAN TEMPLETON 21. THE SCOTTISH DEE PARTNERSHIP TIM WATSON 29. WINTER CLUB CHALLENGE + CLASSIFIEDS

11. NATIONAL FAMILIES MEET AT HEREFORD 2018

30. AGM 2018

Please send all contributions for the Spring 2018 issue no. 312 to the editor by 20th March 2018. Email or hard copy acceptable. Please do not edit or convert photos other than by cropping and keep them separate from the text.

The Canoe-Camper Front Cover - Watching the fireworks from the river in Windsor by Graham Devenish Visit the Canoe Camping Club website at : www.canoecampingclub.co.uk The Canoe Camping Club is a section of the Camping and Caravanning Club (company limited by guarantee) Greenfields House, Westwood Way, Coventry, CV4 8JH T: 0845 130 7631 or 024 7647 5448 *** Printed by: The Printhouse, Hove, BN3 2FB

C H A I R M A N ‘ S

THWART

I hope you all had a good Christmas. The EGM in November was very well attended and a number of new members were elected to the Section Council, to assist with coordinating this year’s programme of meets. However, we still require someone to assist with Midlands Area with a view to taking over the Coordinator role. As a trial, we are holding the 2018 AGM at the Easter meet this year, rather than at a separate AGM to ensure we get a quorum. They main task of the AGM is to elect/re-elect 1/3 of the Section Council. In this issue you will find the runs list for 2018 together with booking forms for the Two National meets, Easter & Hereford and I hope to meet many of you at one or both. For those not equipped or experienced to lightweight camp the Easter meet a good way to participate is the base camp option, which is how I started. Hereford is recommended for beginners, as we provide free training to enable you to safely participate in all but the most adventurous club meets. Please support the organisers of meets by booking as early as practicable, as many events in 2017 were cancelled due to insufficient bookings, only to have last minute inquiries. I hope there are meets that suit everyone’s preferences, but this depends upon volunteer organisers who naturally will bias towards the type of Canoeing they prefer. However, if you have any suggestions of venues please let us know, as we can add events to the programme. Tim Wheeler Chairman

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful festive season? It was so great to see so many faces at the EGM in November, and it was lovely getting out on the water again to watch the spectacular fireworks at the racecourse. I believe there is now a demand for the nighttime paddle to happen again in 2018, which I definitely will be looking forward to! In this issue you will find all the information on the events happening within the club in the next twelve months. The runs list can be found on page 17, and should you wish to attend, contact the relevant coordinator whose information can be found on page 2. You’ll also find the Easter Meet advert, which is being run by Lester Stuart this year, and the booking form for the National Families Meet at Hereford. As always, there are many stories from members’ adventures on the river and around the campsite within these pages, and I look forward to reading even more in March. Happy paddling and camping! Josie Faulkner Editor

S ‘ R O T I D E

LETTER 4

EASTER MEET

2018

MONMOUTHSHIRE AND BRECON CANAL West Country Group invites you to join them. This year, the Easter meet will be on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, from Brecon to Sebastopol, 43 miles. FROM THURSDAY NIGHT, 29TH MARCH TO MONDAY AFTERNOON, 2ND APRIL 2018. For a booking form, please either email easter@canoecampingclub.co.uk (using “Easter Meet form please “ as your subject and giving your membership number), or phone us on 01646 697516 - leaving your name, address and membership number if there’s no reply. Applications to be returned by Friday 1st March But what is the Easter Meet? The Club’s annual Easter Meet is an opportunity to canoe and camp with a great bunch of people, most of whom will be mad enough to canoe-camp. That said, base camping at a single site is not a problem, you still meet up with everybody each day and on one evening we all get together for an indoor social with a three-course meal. What happens to cars? The canoe-campers’ drive their cars to a safe parking area at the end point and a bus brings the drivers back to the start. Base campers have to organise a car shuttle each day. So, if you haven’t tried it before, why not give it a go? See booking details above.

The weekend of 6-7-8th October was the annual weekend meet of the Herts. East Anglia group on the Norfolk Broads ably led and organised by Pete Bradshaw. Regulars to this weekend know the format, camping at Repps near Potter Heigham. If you do not know this part of the world, the campsite is actually lower than the river Thurne which is kept in check by a large levee which has an interesting variety of bungalows along its bank, including one made out of the old Helter Skelter from great Yarmouth. Even the very top bit has been turned into a small shed. DAY ONE This year there were seventeen assorted paddlers in canoes and kayaks and the first run involves a short car trip to Sutton Staithe and the River Ant, an overcast day with the threat of rain; but mostly a very strong headwind and no protection from the reed beds. Heading for Barton Broad, with some shelter at times from the trees, the paddle across the Broad was not to bad, but heavy work as the wind was now coming from the side. Not being quite the end of the season there was much activity from the hire boats but this did not affect us really. Coming back onto the river, we all had a welcome stop at Irstead where there is a little picnic stop and bench. After this one passes by several redundant wind pumps in a need of restoration and onto Ludham Bridge for lunch. A small cafe, shop and public toilets are available here. The river is now tidal and one could see the river rising through the bridge where the banks are very narrow. The wind was still very strong and we decided not to paddle onto Ranworth Broad as this would have added another two hours and we would have returned paddling against the wind and current. Turning east along the River Bure, we had to dodge through a sailing race which was going on and finally turning north onto the River Thurne we had the wind behind us which gave us some respite, but we were all feeling a bit weary. In the evening most people headed 7

for the Falgate Arms in Potter Heigham for an evening meal, very reasonably priced and only a 30 minute walk from the campsite for the more active. DAY TWO There was some heavy rain during the night, but the wind had dropped and back on the water we paddled up the River Thurne through the notorious low bridge where there seemed to be no current and carried on up the river towards Martham Broad and West Somerton. And interesting interlude here is the swing bridge across the river to the farm on the north side of the river. This floats on three large pontoons which are swung into place and the pontoons are then flooded to lower the bridge. The water is then pumped out and the bridge can then be swung back to the river side, only the farmer has the keys to operate the bridge. The water after Martham Broad is incredibly clear. The biggest surprise is arriving

A Typical Weekend with the Club Colin Southward in West Somerton (ignore the private keep out and carry on for another fifty metres to the very end) where the river actually just stops at a small mud bank. The North Sea is only two kilometres from the end of the river but you cannot quite see it. No doubt that global warming will see to that as the village is only 2 or 3 metres above sea level. After lunch we all headed back to the campsite, though some of us looked for a side channel that would take us to Horsey Mere, but the reeds were very overgrown and it was impossible to find. Coming back down the river the swing bridge was open and we were paddling against the tide. At Potter Heigham one could see the water flooding upstream. Hire boats are not allowed to go under the bridge in any direction unless a pilot is used, the height being only about five feet and the width of the main arch is also very narrow. Finally back to the end in warmth and some sunshine, enough to get the tent down before the rain started. Thanks Pete. 8

The Saga Of The Busted Boat by Tim Watson We were on-route to the Scottish Dee for our annual multi day canoe camp. We had driven up through the night to a little “stop-over” I know, pulling up at 03:00 for a few hours shut eye. The following morning, we set off at 07:00 driving along the M74, when: Between junction 11 & 12 the trailer started to “snake” so as you should, Alex (Devenish) lifted off the accelerator: the trailer’s wobble suddenly turned violent, within a second the draw bar parted company from the trailer whilst travelling at 60mph. One of the canoes (probably mine) hit the rear door of Alex’s van before the trailer started rolling, I was alerted to the incident by a short stream of expletives. I glanced into the rear-view mirror only to see one of my most treasured possessions aka “my canoe” hitting the road and being squashed by the combined weight of the trailer and Alex’s canoe. My heart was in my mouth and I felt sick!! (I hadn’t realised that Alex’s van was damaged.) We stopped PDQ and I ran towards the trailer, which had come to rest on its side on the hard shoulder. We pushed the trailer upright and surveyed the damage, the trailer was out of shape: the 9

gunnels of my canoe both inner and outer had taken the brunt of the damage where the boat was strapped to the trailer, the royalex was also creased where the boat had deformed with the impact, two small thwarts had sustained irreparable damage. Also, the one side is heavily grazed. One of my canoe poles now sports a “dink” as does Alex’s alu-gunnels. We informed the break down recovery who stated the canoe trailer was not covered by the breakdown policy, we tried a few more firms, only one was interested but could not attend for two hours. We then called the Highways agency (who didn’t want to know) then the Police, of whom were really helpful. Giving us the number for yet another company. £100 + vat later the scrap trailer was gone. After the initial shock had worn off, I checked out my boat and where the damage was located; I figured the shape of the hull would give the boat enough structural integrity to be river worthy. With both canoes now firmly strapped to the roof we set off in search of a strong coffee. Then finally to Tarland, where the third member

of our team waited. We had inspected the river as we drove by with a “yeah; that’s doable” This was confirmed by the campsite warden, who is also a paddler saying that due to the recent rain the river should be good to go. It was yes; but only just…that’s another story. Finally before sneaking off to the pub, we set about making good the boat, attacking the badly hit section of gunnels with lashings of Gorilla glue, clamping the split tight with mole

grips we also strengthened the other damaged sections again with liberal applications of Gorilla Glue. The thwarts that were broken were left as they were — I had no choice. To summarise. We were so damn lucky to get away with just a battered but still serviceable boat and a dented rear door. It could have been far far worse. Lessons learnt, folks if you pull a trailer check it out good and proper and also take a ganders at your breakdown recovery’s small print! 10

THE CANOE CAMPING CLUB INVITES YOU TO THE NATIONAL FAMILIES HOLIDAY MEET

HEREFORD ROWING CLUB 37 Greyfriars Avenue, Hereford HR4 0BE www.herefordrc.co.uk Friday 25th May to Sunday 3rd June 2018 (Limited Capacity 1-3 June) PROPOSED ACTIVITIES FOR 2018 Day Paddles, Long & Short Canoe Camp the Wye (if leader forthcoming) Training: Canoe, kayak, safety Bring & try various boat and equipment types Marquee for social use (barbeque and other activities) Campsite games, canoe sports, Bilge sale etc Further details will be announced in update newsletters Communal Barbeque Saturday 26th 6pm

The types of activities vary depending on the weather, river conditions being suitable and the availability of volunteers. The Meet relies on those with skills contributing – please let the organisers know if you are able to assist in training / run leading / organising “après-canoe” etc. Those that have been before will be expected to assist with stewarding etc, if not otherwise contributing to running of the event. Offers of help by newcomers will be very welcome. Please note there are no Electric Hook ups on this site. Water, Dishwashing & CDP are available at the club house Toilets and showers are available at the club house and Sea Cadets building RETURN COMPLETED FORMS with payment to Tim Wheeler 3 Birch Close Sprotbrough Doncaster DN5 7JY • Book only ONE pitch per form. Duplicate the form for extra pitches. • Complete the form and questionnaire fully. • Please do not send cash • Site opens 2pm. Friday 25th May, closes noon Sunday 3rd June 2018 • Refunds can only be provided after the event and will be at the discretion of the organising committee. For Inquiries regarding the meet, or offers of help, contact Tim Wheeler e-mail: holidaymeet@canoecampingclub.co.uk or phone 01302 645427 12

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



If <18

Please include all persons attending

If you have one

Coaching Qualifications/ Canoeing Standard

2018 Fees Family Unit- 2 adults & children < 18years Camping : £11.00 per night (max 7 nights) Admin Fee £ 10.00

Booking Deposit £30 Members Guests: Temporary Membership Fee: £3.50 each

Additional Adults £5/night, additional Child rate £2.50 Solo Lightweight Campers Camping £5.50; Admin Fee £ 5.00 Booking Deposit £15.

Deposit to be sent with Booking Form. Balance payable on arrival. Cheque payable to ‘Canoe-Camping Club’ (drawn on a UK Bank) . Members guests cannot bring their own units (tent, caravan or motorhome)

CANOE-CAMPING CLUB – HEREFORD 2018 BOOKING FORM Family Name:

C&CC Number:

 Please tick if new to the meet Address: Post Code:

Phone Number (optional):

E-mail (to receive meet information updates and queries) We Intend to: Arrive on:  C&C Club Unit

time: or:

Depart on:

 Solo Lightweight Camper Tick one box

C&CC Unit consists of up to 2 Adults + children (5 -18). <18 CCY Members are only accepted if accompanied by a responsible adult.

Unit Type - please tick  Caravan  Motorhome

 Trailer tent

 Tent

Note: 1. You must be registered with the C&CC to book a unit. 2. Non-members may only camp with a member and must use the same unit as the full member. They must register and pay as temporary members if >18 and will also be charged as an additional person. 3. Non-family <18yrs will usually be charged the additional child rate. 4. Small Pup tents must be pitched with the main unit and must not be used for cooking.

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Windsor EGM In Three Parts by Lester Stuart

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I’m sure you’ll read elsewhere how successful the EGM/AGM was but, as well as the meeting itself, three Paddle trips were laid on: a Saturday daytime paddle on the Slough arm of the Grand Union Canal ; a night-time The canal trip involved a short drive to the Slough fireworks spectacular paddle on the Thames Basin end where ten of and a Sunday paddle on the Thames. us launched in seven boats. The canal was built in 1882 to serve the multiple brickworks needed for a rapidly expanding London, with bricks being taken out and London’s refuse being brought back to fill the holes created by clay extraction. It was in commercial use until 1960. Now, the canal is the border between housing and industry on one side and open country on the other. The water was crystal clear as narrow boats don’t tend to come beyond the marina and moorings, about 3 miles from the Slough end. We could see fish jumping so the water quality must be good. Like a lot of urban canals, this is as good as any tranquil backwater for a gentle paddle. Needless to say, yours truly couldn’t resist rescuing the odd football (all put on the towpath for someone else to enjoy), a cricket bat and a fishing float. On the other hand, I did resist rescuing a whole roll of “Buried Services” tape - those who know me well realise my therapy must be working! We picnicked opposite the marina whilst watching 3 red kites soaring and diving, and a poorly camouflaged Fran sneaking towards us with her camera. After paddling back the 3 miles to the start, we managed to get the boats loaded before it started raining and on arriving back at the Sea Cadets’ Base, were amazed to hear the hall was nearly full with people who’d come to show their support for the Club at the EGM. A great way to end a very enjoyable paddle.

PART 2, FIREWORKS PADDLE An armada of canoes and kayaks set off in the dark to secret location X to watch a truly spectacular fireworks display and it was hard to say whether the white lights each boat had to show were jolly or eerie. From a distance they were eerie but close up, jolly took over, especially when you saw things like electric candles sticking out of people’s hats. The fireworks display seemed to last for ever and a clear sky as a backdrop really increased the drama. Almost as beautiful as the fireworks, themselves, were some of the spidery smoke trails that hung in the sky to be lit up by the next firework burst. Our leaders, also beautifully lit up by the display, had chosen a perfect location because just downstream of us, another canoe club was gathered and, twice, they virtually disappeared in the smoke that dropped to the river between us and them. Not everyone wanted to paddle to the display, some social heroes stayed behind to mastermind the creation of a soup and baked potatoes supper. A great end to a brilliant day both for us, as individuals, and for our club.

SUNDAY PADDLE On the Sunday of our EGM weekend, we paddled from Windsor to Bray lock and back on the Thames, a 10 mile round trip. It was cooler than Saturday with a strengthening breeze, but the sun made enough appearances to keep us warm. On this stretch of the Thames, you expect to see lots of posh houses so a mobile home park was a bit of a surprise as was the 15 foot high stainless steel giraffe in someone’s garden. Lunch was at Bray lock and there was fierce competition between the cake bringers (no canoe trip is really complete without cake or ice-cream). We even had presidential cake baked and brought by Jo Ledger who was with her personal paddling slave, I mean son, Bob. Paddling back with the wind behind us was quicker than the outward journey and, when we were nearly back, we followed the advice to carry on past the island in front of the Sea Cadets’ to get a magnificent full frontal view of Windsor Castle. A view that the people in front of us on the amphibious Duck tour had paid a fortune to see. Continuing round the island back to the Cadets’ base, we passed a replica of a WWII Hawker Hurricane celebrating its local manufacture and its designer, Sydney Camm. He was a prolific aircraft designer and it’s amazing to think that the Hurricane was designed by him in the 1930s and that his last design was the Harrier Jump Jet, both ahead of their time.

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Thank you to all who organised or helped with the EGM and the paddles and to Windsor Sea Cadets for their hospitality.

RUNS LIST 2018 THE CANOE-CAMPING CLUB - The club for canoeists who camp and campers who canoe We are an active Section of The Camping and Caravanning Club, Greenfields House, Westwood Way, Coventry, CV4 8JH FOR MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT THE SECRETARY Fran Faulkner secretary@canoecampingclub.co.uk

25 FEB GRAND UNION CANAL HAYES / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 25 FEB RIVER DERWENT MATLOCK / MIDLANDS

The Canoe-Camping Club organises local day trips and weekend meets throughout the year, as well as longer holiday meets.

25 FEB RIVER OUSE KEMPSTON / HERTS & EAST ANGLIA

You’ll find outline details of the events for the year here. Some events such as the Easter Meet and the annual Families’ Holiday Meet are attended by members from all over the country.

11 MAR RIVER THAMES WALTON / THAMES & SOUTHEAST

Members are welcomed on all meets. (Some of the more advanced trips may be restricted to experienced paddlers). Camping and Caravanning Club membership cards must be shown at all meets. Canoe-camping Club members should keep the Secretary informed whether they are current members of British Canoeing, Canoe Wales, The Scottish Canoe Association or the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland. The Canoe-Camping Club is a national club for touring canoeists (and kayakers) and for those who like to combine canoeing/kayaking and camping. The Club caters for everyone, with a variety of meets round the country. Some are ideal for beginners whilst others challenge the more experienced paddler. Members are always glad to offer help and friendly advice to newcomers. All ages are welcome, and in particular the Club likes to encourage families Unless otherwise stated, inland trips are planned on relatively easy water. Conditions on coastal trips are less predictable. Distances depend on conditions and participants: organisers will advise, and also reserve the right to decide whether individuals may participate. It is often possible to organise shorter and easier trips for the less experienced.

24 FEB LLANGOLLEN CANAL LLANGOLLEN / DEE & NORTH WEST

11 MAR RIVER TRENT MIDLANDS 18 MAR WICKEN FEN HERTS & EAST ANGLIA 29 MAR - 2 APR BRECON AND MONMOUTH CANAL NATIONAL EASTER MEET 15 APR UPPER GREAT OUSE HERTS & EAST ANGLIA 29 APR RIVER THAMES CHERTSEY / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 5 MAY - 7 MAY RIVER SEVERN MONTFORD BRIDGE / DEE & NORTH WEST 19 MAY - 20 MAY RIVER YARE HERTS & EAST ANGLIA 20 MAY UPPER RIVER MOLE THAMES & SOUTHEAST 25 MAY - 3 JUN RIVER WYE HEREFORD / NATIONAL FAMILIES MEET

21 JAN RIVERS BOURNE & THAMES CHERTSEY / THAMES & SOUTHEAST

3 JUN THAMES TIDEWAY BARNES / THAMES & SOUTHEAST

11 FEB RIVER WEY NEWHAW THAMES & SOUTHEAST

9 JUN - 10 JUN RIVERS ALDE & DEBEN HERTS & EAST ANGLIA

10 JUN RIVER WEAVER & SHROPSHIRE UNION CANAL NORTHWICH / DEE & NORTH WEST 15 JUN - 17 JUN CHICHESTER HARBOUR COBNOR / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 29 JUN - 1 JUL RIVER THAMES SHILLINGFORD / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 30 JUN - 1 JUL NORFOLK CREEKS HERTS & EAST ANGLIA 6 JUL - 8 JUL RIVER THAMES OXFORD / MIDLANDS 14 JUL - 15 JUL POOLE HARBOUR THAMES & SOUTHEAST 14 JUL - 15 JUL RIVER TRENT / CANAL SWARKESTONE / MIDLANDS 28 JUL - 29 JUL RIVERS CUCKMERE & OUSE / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 29 JUL RIVER DEE ECCLESTON FERRY DEE & NORTH WEST 4 AUG - 5 AUG CONISTON WATER CONISTON HALL /DEE & NORTH WEST 11 AUG - 12 AUG RIVERS HAMBLE & BEAULIEU / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 25 AUG - 27 AUG RIVER AVON ECKINGTON / MIDLANDS 26 AUG RIVER WEY OLD WOKING / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 8 SEP - 9 SEP RIVER THAMES CHERTSEY / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 9 SEP RIVER OSEA HERTS & EAST ANGLIA

15 SEP - 16 SEP RIVER GREAT OUSE & RIVER CAM HERTS & EAST ANGLIA 21 SEP - 23 SEP RIVER STOUR HERTS & EAST ANGLIA 22 SEP - 23 SEP RIVER SEVERN MONTFORD BRIDGE/DEE & NORTH WEST 23 SEP RIVER THAMES READING / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 29 SEP - 30 SEPPOSSIBLY RIVER MEDWAY THAMES & SOUTHEAST 6 OCT - 7 OCT NORFOLK BROADS HERTS & EAST ANGLIA 7 OCT RIVER WEY THAMES & SOUTHEAST 21 OCT LANCASTER CANAL LANCASTER / DEE & NORTH WEST 21 OCT RIVER THAMES BOURNE END / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 3 NOV - 4 NOV RIVER THAMES WINDSOR / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 18 NOV BASINGSTOKE CANAL CHURCH CROOKHAM / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 25 NOV RIVER DOUGLAS RUFFORD / DEE & NORTH WEST 3 DEC RIVER OUSE ST NEOTS / HERTS & EAST ANGLIA 9 DEC RIVER WEY GUILDFORD / THAMES & SOUTHEAST 16 DEC BRIDGEWATER CANAL LITTLE BOLLINGTON / DEE & NORTH WEST

Paddling The Wild...Erness SOUTHERN BOAT SERIES RIVER HAMBLE WILD WATER RACE 18 NOVEMBER 2017 WORDS & PHOTOS BY SUSAN TEMPLETON Well I am ready where is everyone else?

Surprisingly, despite the numbers of yachts navigating the river daily and of course the other canoe race paddlers ahead of them, there were sections, where paddlers could lose sight of anyone else, this can make the river seem quite wild and lonely. 21 paddlers in varying types of kayaks and canoes took to the water to race the seventh annual running of the two mile race. Paddlers ranged from age 10 to 79 showing the appeal to all ages and longevity of the sport. Conditions on the river can range from flat as a mill pond to waves of two foot plus with strong or gusting winds of immense power. This year, for a change, race conditions were testing with a strong head wind but not difficult. The Hamble Sea Scouts provided exceptional support both on and off the water managing start and finish timings and running the two motorised safety craft on the water. They also had, as ever, many of their Sea Scouts racing, putting in great performances across the field. In the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ranking Wild Water Racing (WWR) class Richard Kent of Southampton Canoe Club, 19

as in past races, blew the competition away with a time of 15 minutes and 54 seconds that is close to 8 miles per hour in a WWR boat. Richard had already trained on the river for an hour, less than 90 minutes before his race start, then managed to be a minute faster than rival Dr Selwyn Richards of Poole Harbour Canoe Club. The surprise third was 15 year old Michael Preston from the Hamble Sea Scouts, who often prefers racing marathon kayaks (with rudders) rather than WWR boats, but in his WWR boat he can clearly show many competitors a clean stern. Last man standing 10 year old Oliver Law welcomed home

Ten year old Oliver Law from Winchester and District Canoe Club, the youngest competitor, battled away for 41 minutes but finished with Brother Jacob Law age 11 supporting him and Father Ian Law, having volunteered to be tail end Charlie (last sweep boat); encouraging him all the way to the finish. The ladies was won by Susan Templeton of Itchen Valley Canoe Club followed by 12 year old Izzy Thomas of the Hamble Sea Scouts. The menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Canadian single by Phillip Brown of the Hamble Sea Scouts.

The open race was won by Conor Buckman of the Hamble Sea Scouts followed by Tony Smith of Winchester and District Canoe Club, both men in Sea Kayaks. Many thanks to the RAF Yacht Club https:// rafyc.org.uk for allowing the race to finish at their lovely premises on the banks of the River Hamble and Andark Diving and Water Sports Shop at Swanwick andark.co.uk for allowing use of their toilets at the start. Run by Itchen Valley and the Sharks Canoe Clubs http://www.thesharks.org.uk/ For details of WWR races locally and across the country and about WWR see the GB WWR website http://www.wildwater.org.uk.

Conor Buckman all at sea

Richard Kent Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner by few nautical miles

All Ducks in a row: Ready

set go!!!!

The Scottish Dee Partnership WORDS TIM WATSON PHOTOS TIM WATSON & TIM WHEELER

017’s canoe camping trip, the plan was to paddle our laden open boats from the Linn of Dee to the Sea (or as close as) The Partnership:Tim Wheeler, Alex D and myself. Day 1 (Sunday 17/9/17) After Saturday’s eventful drive (see The Saga of the Busted Boat) up to our base camp and centre of operations, Tarland, this being a small village mid-way between the Linn of Dee and Aberdeen and as luck would have it a pub and a Camping and Caravanning Club site. From here we set out on the car shuttle, transporting boats and kit to the put in as high up the river as we deemed practicable, the Linn of Dee. Mauling the boats and kit down to the riverbank from the car park was hot work, resulting in heavy breathing and a shining beacon to all the local midges. My task for the next few hours was keeping an eye on the boats and kit. As the midges were out, I quickly donned my midge-net and thin gloves. I did get a few funny looks but hey, the little bloodsuckers couldn’t get to me so I didn’t care. The gang returned to the put in and the trip had now officially begun. We turned into the flow, I patted my damaged boat hoping she would be ok. The river meandered left then right and straight into a rapid. Erm….we didn’t expect one quite so soon, the only line was to go far river left and duck under a fallen tree. Tim went first, I watched him as he dropped down the first ledge. Problem was whilst I watched, my boat had drifted towards a submerged boulder. With a

bump the front of my boat caught the boulder and the back end was pushed around by the flow, I was now heading towards the tree backwards (for reference this small rapid is viewable on Google earth street view along the river path) Now the down side of not packing light is a less responsive boat. With a few grunts and groans I had just managed to turn my boat the right way, I ended up a little too far right, I managed to duck under the tree but my boat clipped the ledge and tipped me over on my off side. What a great way to start a multi-day trip…NOT! I instinctively held onto my swim line with a hope I could self-rescue. But after a few seconds I decided it wasn’t a great idea; so, I let go! I once again watched my pride and joy bounce out of control; fortunately this time it was on a river not the M74! After about a 20-meter bumpy swim I made my way to the bank, paddle still in hand. Once on dry land I ran like hell after my boat. 100-meters after the rapid was a boulder/gravel beach where I waded and rescued my boat. Tim and Alex picked up what little kit that went wayward, being spare paddle, drinks bottles, skin-so-soft and sponge. On the plus side my two-piece (dry top and salopettes) kept me dryer than I could have hoped, so I am pleased about that. We were soon back on the water and soon approaching yet another rapid. We took one look and decided to portage. The afternoon was wearing on and we tend to look for suitable campsites at 15:00 hrs — to us the camping aspect of the trip is nearly as important as the canoeing. That’s why we travel…. rather heavy. We found a suitable campsite grid ref: NO079 –897. After only about 1 ½ km it was time to call it a day, we needed to collect and prepare firewood for the evening meal. Why paddle on? We were on holiday after all. Up goes the tarp and Tipi: the firebox was prepared for both midge protection and the meal. On the menu tonight was Alex’s spaghetti and meatballs washed down with some Chardonnay. After this it was time to sit back and relax with a wee dram or two in our comfy lightweight chairs (see we do go light weight) and watch the campsite telly, tonight’s programme: campfire kettle boils water.

Day Two. (Monday 18/9/17) Up bright and early to set the fire going for fresh ground coffee, flasks and breakfast. We packed away, made good the site and neatly stacked surplus firewood in a sheltered spot and very soon we were on the water for a relaxed 09:45. The river here was shallow and meandering with a few low-lying islands to negotiate round with the odd riffle here and there. There was a chill breeze blowing so we picked up the pace simply to warm ourselves up. We passed Braemar, not that we knew it as the only indicator we really saw was where Clunnie Water joins the Dee. Four or so kilometres down from Braemer, we hit a boulder garden and the A93 bridge, indicators for the Invercauld Rapids marked at Grade 2 – 3 but at this level it was more. So, we lined our boats around its big boat swamping hole. After this rapid the boulder gardens started to come in thick and fast, although most were not dangerous these boulder gardens demanded a lot of concentration. Picking lines between boulders that would stop, ground or spin an open boat. There were no real obvious lines, you had to find a “gateway” in then run them blind altering your route as you go picking lines concentrating mainly on 5 - 6 meters ahead with the occasional glimpse ahead looking for a horizon line: indicating a drop. Using markers such as subtle changes in the shape of the wavelets, bumps in the river surface and spotting the eddies behind the hidden and exposed boulders that can also be “ducked in” to slow you down and assist in moving across the river by setting in and reverse ferry gliding. It’s a shame we couldn’t enjoy the view as I am sure it was stunning, but you really needed to pay attention. Running the boulder gardens is great fun however some sections had cheeky little drops at the end which required a good solid low brace and a little bailing, some had big bad boat eaters that really needed avoiding and my boat had taken enough punishment so far that week.Somewhere in the above section we pulled in for lunch. We approached the B976 bridge just before Balmoral, when suddenly Tim (our resident river God) made a sudden manoeuvre and dropped into an eddy river left, something couldn’t be right! I started a reverse ferry to join him paddling 24

hard backwards, I noticed a drop — not much of a drop. What had he seen? I reached a point where my boat had stalled, it was touch and go if I could successfully make the eddy without some drastic action. I looked at the drop, saw nothing that would cause me any difficulty. “I’m going for it” and neatly plopped over. There is a rumour going around that I made a “OoooOhh! Ing” sound. I don’t remember doing that so it couldn’t have happened!! Tim and Alex plopped over taking in a little water. We passed Balmoral, you could only take a quick glimpse of the building across the manicured lawns as the trees were planted blocking the view. I waved just in case Queenie and Co were watching as we floated past. I looked down checking to see if I had little red dots of light float about on my BA. It was approaching 15:00hrs, time to scout for a campsite. We checked river left at Clachanturn but that was a little too marshy so opted for the other side of the river and a nice site grid ref: NO 278 950 25

“Still upright and grinning I pulled into an eddy to bail out again, 5 inches of water this time.” where we made camp. Again, the tarp was raised and the fire was set. The owner of the nearby cottage walked passed with her dog and asked us if we needed any dry wood! How cool is that? Now that’s a damn site better than a “Get orf moi LAAND!” Our meal was cooked by Tim, this being Moorish Tagine, washed down with some fine malt whisky. Oh yeah, that’s how we roll… Same telly again that evening, Campfire kettle boils water part deux. That night the stars were out and during the night; the temperature plummeted waking me up, I zipped up my three-season bag and hunkered down inside and fell back to slumber, warm as toast and comfortable as can be on my camp bed/inflatable mattress combo.

Day 3, (Tuesday 19/9/17) I was up and out preparing the fire as the sun came up. Mist rose from the river, our dry bags coated with a thin layer of ice and the coffee was on. Canoe camping doesn’t get much better than this.Once again it was 09:45 or there abouts when we set off, for one of the best

days on a river. Abergeldie Castle came into view, with its overhanging tower and small trap door, I would imagine it to be great for warding off unwanted guests with it’s messy missiles launched from above. The same relentless boulder gardens as the day before, some as far as the eye can see. Great fun, but just a little tiring both mentally and physically. Balleter came and passed, the sun shining it was a great day to be on the river.On Google Earth the river level is about the same and if you look you can see smudgy white “clouds” on the river, these are those boulder gardens. We passed underneath another footbridge that showed signs of debris damage. Soon after we came across what was marked on my map as “rock rapids” — an easy grade 2 that required a little bailing. We approached Dinnet Rapid with some caution, after inspecting it Tim decided to give it a go. With bated breath, I watched Tim get pinned thus requiring a technical 26

dismount. Tim was on the other side of the river and therefore on his own to sort his boat out, which he did admirably only losing one dry bag. Alex went into pursuit, over the bridge he ran as the bag went towards river left. Then it moved over to river right. Alex still in pursuit and was about to swim out for it. When Tim came into view. Alex said to Tim – “It’s only fire wood” as he hauled it back into his boat. Alex and I lined our boats down. Time was ticking on and we started to scout for camp 3, as luck would have it we found one soon after. Grid ref: 471-988. A sheltered spot with sand. No tarp needed as the weather and the midges played ball. A fire pit was dug and one of the fireboxes sunk into it ready for my meal. A traditional Scottish dish: Mackerel and Chorizo Paella. That seemed to go down well, with some white wine of course.

“With bated breath, I watched Tim get pinned thus requiring a technical dismount. “

Day 4 (Wednesday 20/9/17) The day dawned and coffee was on the go, weather not so good today, overcast but ok. We launched the boats down a bank peeked around the corner, and satisfied all was good we were away. More boulder gardens followed, we past Aboyne again, around a nearby island and we were once again out in the sticks and dodging boulders. A few more kilometres later we approached the B993 bridge and another rapid at Portarch.Not quite trusting the grades from the guides, we jumped out inspected the rapid and saw a straightforward line. Alex now positioned with a Camera, I walked up towards Tim, who at the time was dashing off with a roll of loo paper! I took the lead and shot the rapid, no drama at all. This named and guide marked rapid was far easier than many of the ones we have run and were not marked! I took over from Alex as camera man when Tim shot past my boat which was quietly bobbing about in the eddy. Then Alex shot the rapid, again no drama what so ever. More minor rapids followed. We studied the map and saw substantial woodland, beyond that civilisation seemed to be creeping in, as was the weather. Could this be the last opportunity to find a decent campsite? We weren’t sure. So, after a reasonably short day on the river we started to look for a campsite. 27

We found a grassy site grid ref: NO 641 957, tucked away at the end of a track. This new campsite had an existing fire pit for us to fill with a firebox, using the firebox means we didn’t run the risk of exploding stones and the fire itself is more efficient. We decided that tomorrow would be the last day on the water, only 35km to Aberdeen. But first we had to negotiate two rapids; one a grade 2 and one a grade 2-3, but that was for tomorrow. We had more on our minds for that night, what to eat? We all bought ingredients for one main meal plus extras. It was the extras we used in a ready-steady cook scenario. Between ourselves we made a scrummy pork Pasanda dish, followed by Tim’s traditional Spotted Jock and custard. The rain/drizzle had now set in, the fire was happily doing what it does best, boil water. However, it’s not all doom and gloom as we are not restricted to tiny tents; we have the pleasure of sitting under the tarp with a campfire in the rain, warm, dry and oh so comfortable.

Day 5 (Thursday 21/9/17) The final day we packed away in the wet, the cotton canvas tipi now

“To sum up the trip in one word — fabulous.” weighing a ton. Again, another down side of packing not-so-light. Despite the rain during the night the river had not gained any noticeable volume. We launched and with a mere 2km of paddling and a minor rapid we came across the first of the last two main rapids of the river. A quick inspection to satisfy ourselves and we ran the first one. Easy enough just a few rocks and boat sploshing wave trains to deal with, I took in about four inches of water. After bailing out (this was a team effort in my case) we came across a fishing hut and a stricken van delivering firewood. For fisherfolk – canoe relationship purposes (and we are nice guys) we pulled in and helped push the stricken van out off the quagmire and onto solid ground. With a warning from the van driver of some “pretty wild water” ahead, we set off. For the second time that morning we jumped out and inspected the rapid, saw a good line and went for it. I aimed for the left of the wave train, but the river didn’t want to know and sent me through the thick of it, waves crashing over the front and sides of my canoe, she once again filled up. I was now heading for an exposed ledge of rock, some rather hefty reverse stokes mixed with support

strokes I managed to avoid the rock, then into the final set of waves. Still upright and grinning I pulled into an eddy to bail out again, 5 inches of water this time. Now it was Aberdeen or bust and we weren’t planning for bust. We cruised past Bachory, the weather was a mixture of drizzle/rain/damp/grey sometimes in that order; sometimes not. Just past Peterculter is an island and an option. River left = long way round, river right = short cut. We opted for the short cut, as it happens this turned out to be a bit of a jungle run trees, rocks, shallows, along with various route options, all good fun. Once back on the main river, civilisation was creeping steadily in as we approached the city. In Aberdeen we changed our formation from “in line” to three boats “side by side”. We passed the University and slowly but surely, we entered the City. Waving at folks when they waved at us, the end was now in sight. In close formation, we turned in to the Rowing club’s steps with a welcome wave from Jackie who had Tim’s van and trailer waiting and when all the boats were loaded we had officially finished our trip. To sum up the trip in one word — fabulous. Now to start planning 2018’s trip — Rannoch Moor to Dundee looks rather tasty. 28

WINTER CLUB PADDLING CHALLENGE 2017-2018

British Canoeing are again running a “Winter Club Challenge” with prizes for “Most miles paddled “and “Most places paddled”. The challenge is already in swing, running from 1st December to 28th February. Having won the “Most places paddled” award in 2015, the Canoe-camping club are of course up for the challenge again, and have already entered details of our trips organized on the River Wey midDecembes, the Basingstoke Canal on New Year’s Eve and the River Cam on New Year’s Day. I’ll also be adding information for our forthcoming club outings. As we go to print, we have 381 miles clocked up, putting us 4th on the leaderboard, and we are second for the number of paces paddled. If you have personal paddling miles that you are happy for us to include, please submit the details using the form on our website, or write to me at the address inside the front cover of this magazine and help us push further up the tables! Fran Faulkner

ENDLESS RIVER MAIL ORDER SPECIALISTS Tel. 01905 640003 Please contact us for your free colour brochure. All the accessories you need for canoes, kayaks and yourself P.O. Box 699, Worcester, WR2 6ZL E-mail dave@endlessriver.co.uk www.endlessriver.co.uk

Seen a thing? Been on a trip? Have you got any access information, safety tips, extra runs, something for sale, information about the club, photographs, or even any tidbits? Send them to magazine@canoecampingclub.co.uk by 2oth march 2018. We can’t have a newsletter without your contributions! Did you know that Canoe-Camper is now online? The magazine is exclusively on issuu.com and is downloadable on android and apple products. You can now follow us on twitter to keep up to date with all things Canoe Camping Club! Just type in @canoecampermag and click follow! Join us now on Facebook for an exclusive digital colour copy. www.facebook.com/groups/162317170629300/ 29

2018 Annual General Meeting

The 2018 Annual General Meeting of The Canoe-camping Club will be held on Saturday 26th May 2018 at Hereford Rowing Club, Griffiths Avenue, Hereford, HR4 0BE. MR 149/506396. We look forward to seeing you there.

Notices of motions and nominations of folk willing to become committee members should be sent to Fran Faulkner, 23 Somerville Rd, Eton SL4 6PB, by 27th March 2018 for motions and 12th May 2018 for nominations.

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