A team of eight former F4H delegates recently travelled to canoe the width of Scotland from west to east with Brathay specialists, The Brathay Trust.
Their trip took them from from Banavie to navigate Neptune’s staircase, before paddling along the Caledonian Canal and finishing at Inverness. The purpose of the expedition was to train a group of former delegates so that they will be equipped to support future expeditions run by Brathay Explore. Throughout the week, the volunteers were familiarised with the Voyageur canoes, the techniques required for transiting locks and lochs, the route – wet bit in the middle, tall lumpy bits either side – visit the campsites, and understand of all the necessary safety considerations for a successful expedition.
They covered everything needed to support the Brathay staff to safely accompany the disadvantaged youngsters as they learn and lead their own expeditions, potentially as part of their own Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.
Graham Brown, Chief Executive of F4H, said:
“This was a fantastic opportunity for the former delegates, and F4H owe a huge thanks to The Brathay Trust for their belief in our people, and for providing such a great chance for our delegates to both give back and move forwards with their lives. What is more, one of our team so impressed Brathay that now he is employed by them!”
