Preparation?

I survived.
I have returned from a very enjoyable if somewhat soggy weekend in the Chilterns training for October.
I arrived in Henley-on-Thames at 8am on Saturday morning greeted by blue skies and sunshine and met my fellow intrepid walkers at the pre-arranged spot. There I met 2 other members of my forthcoming trip - Christine and Mike, along with ActionAid staff members Chris, Jenny and Helen, our guides Terry and Paul and a number of other travellers booked on alternative treks.

Saturday's walk followed a circular route from Henley and took in the villages of Hambledon and Assendon in very pleasant conditions. Although there was some conflict between pedometer and GPS we travelled approximately 14miles in total before spending the evening at our accomodation - the Youth Hostel in nearby Streatley.

Sunday morning was less inviting and after a short drive to our starting point at Christmas Common, the rain began to fall, the winds picked up and we were provided with a day of difficult conditions in which to conduct our walk.
Again we followed a circular route this time covering approximately 11 miles through the villages of Stoner and Turville before finally returning to the Fox and Hounds PH at Christmas Common and a welcoming ale.

Whether the conditions provided suitable training for trekking in 45+oC heat in the Rift Valley remains to be seen. Nevertheless, an enjoyable time was had.

And the boots are now to be retired off as well

Andrew