Raleigh - India Expedition, September- December 2009

The Village People

2009-12-02T16:21:00.002+05:30

Sorry it's been a while for an update but there's been around the clock work for the expedition magazine which is now almost at printing stage!

All the groups are getting on fabulously. Charlie 3 in the village of Hosaheggudilu have not only been... you guessed it... digging, but have also been busy teaching the children some English, art and sport in the school-cum-living accomodation for the group, which was very well received by the villagers.

The bunds and trenches are coming along well and they get a treat for all their hard work today as they're taking a rest day and a trip out to visit the villages of Halsur, which was the base of a project in the previous phase, and Netikalhundi which was a project for 09I. They also get the chance to take a cooling dip/wash in a nearby water channel.

The group outside one of the village's very colourful houses

Amy working hard

One of the village kids

Both trekking groups are making the most of the dry weather and are making excellent time each day. Tomorrow is cross over day and their rest day so both groups should get the chance to mingle, swap trekking stories and compare blisters over the fire at the campsite they will share for the night. Tango 6 will also be celebrating John Emmerson's birthday today.

Adam (The King of India) from head office has left his trekking adventure with Tango 7 and will soon be arriving at the Echo 4 camp, along with Neil (who we at fieldbase like to call teaboy!), where they are all looking forward to seeing them. And we've just received a phone call saying there is an elephant happily standing at the water pump ready to greet them both!

The group had a trip out to HD Kote yesterday and they had a birthday to celebrate today as James Gurney is turning 22. Happy birthday from fieldbase to both John and James!

The school at Charlie 1 is in the final construction stages and they're mixing their hard physical tasks with some lighter work such as painting. We're all gearing up to the school's opening ceremony towards the end of this phase which should be an emotional occasion for everyone involved in its construction and for the people of Muttimoola.

So after that round up it just leaves some messages from the venturers:

Georgie Page would like to say thanks to everyone from home who sent birthday cards, it was great to read them all. She had a great birthday! x

Davina would also like to wish her Dad, Tom, a very happy 60th birthday. And best wishes from all of us here at fieldbase. x

Hi Marina

Happy Birthday for the 16th, hope you have a fantastic day. All my love to you and Oliver.
Tina x

To The Badens,
Thank you for your message, you should receive some letters soon. Having a great time in Halsur.
Love Tina x

To Libby, hey ya hun I can’t receive any messages till I finish trek on Dec 13th. Not long left.
Rwarr x Crimbo

To Juliet Prodger
Hey same sort of thing I said to Libby x Crimbo. Things are fine, new group again – Tango 6.

To Juliette and Ben
Having a good time. How’s everyone i.e. Smurf, Sam R, John and Dale? Can you find out? Missing everyone. If you and Libby send another letter I will receive it but don’t send it after 20th Nov. Missing all, Crimbo.

Libby
Be careful what you send on the blog though because it won’t get through the filter. Missing you lots spiderman yer, jammy stain dippings, rwarries. Anyway write a letter I can’t wait to hear from you xx Glad you got the letter xxx Crim

To Johnny
You out there, can’t hear you, spiderman where are you? Miss you lots, any funny sorties? Have you done it yet? x chris x

Hey Dan,
Got your letter today – woohoo! Hope you’re still good. Almost finished the trek – it’s been a slog but we’ve had a real laugh! Eaten so much! Back in fieldbase on 23rd – speak to you then!
With love, Frankie xxx

Hello Marr Family!
Thanks for the blogs and letters – got them today. Especially loved Becky’s card! The trek has been tough but we’ve done it now and have 2 days of rafting to look forward to at the end. Have had no more leeches on my face but several hundred have attacked my boots in vain! Thinking of you all, love Frances in a tired but happy Tango 7! Xxx

Hi Mum, Dad, Lindsey & Chris
Sorry for delay – only just got the blog. Glad you had a great time in the Peaks – sounds awesome! Having a great trek although it’s rained a lot! Boxer shorts got soaked through one night so I dropped my trousers and dried my boxers on the fire whilst wearing them. When in Rome…! Have loads of photos. The trek is over now, just 2 days of rafting left, which will be great. Slept out under the stars last night. Glad you received the card as well and I hope you had a great day, lots of love
Matthew xxx

Hey Kate
Good luck with Faustus! It will be great! Save me a hoody please (and a poster). Hope terms going well and Chris isn’t too scarred from the house party! Trek has been great and tiring and wet. Have had some great food from cafes on the roadsides; parotha, chai and a white mango, going a bit green even?! Boxers on previous post to Mum & Dad. Have been keeping busy – planning our skit, building shrines to ganesh (have been given a little statue) etc. (I am now carving a spoon – hopefully!) Sleeping outside in shelters/random houses is a highlight. Keep me posted about everything.
Lots of Love and Hugs
Matt xxx

To Richard Drax
Hey Dad thanks for your message. No one has been assigned for the wake up call and with regards to the beer – no drink allowed! Say hi to Tash and James for me as well! Just finished the trekking phase (over 200k’s) with a very heavy bag! My trousers are now about ten sizes too big and this phase has definitely been both a challenge and a lot of fun at the same time! Sorry about the picture – I’d just finished my ciggy! Met lots of nice people and still having a great time. Definitely in need of some meat when I get home though as a lot of Inida is veggie! Killer!!!
Love Tobs xx

To Tamara Drax
Hey Bara, thanks so much for your message really appreciate it! Send my love to porge as well! Just about finished my trekking phase and have to build a raft out of bamboo tomorrow as we have two days rafting! Seen lots of wicked places and been on some interesting bus journeys! Food is not as bad now and doesn’t blow my head off quite as much as it did originally and I’m having a great time. Has been hard work and have lost a lot of weight judging by how loose my trousers are now! Hope the toons good and all’s well with you! Loads of love and see you at Christmas for a crazy one!! Xx

Hey Holly,
I just got both your letters today which was really cool  can’t wait to see you on the 17th! Bit concerned about how you are feeling couldn’t read the word on the first letter and I’m looking forward to the shoe shopping. You are going to have to keep guessing what the pressie is 
Love you loads, Jamie E xxxxx

Hiya Mum and Dad,
I’ve just finised the trekking today only got the rafting left now. It felt awesome to finish it. It is not the same having bad weather but being indoors still we have been rather lucky it has dried up or rather stopped raining constantly. I have put weight on during the trek. I would prefer not to have a haircut when I get back due to mu hair not growing quickly. So how it the work in the garden going? How is the fitness age coming with the Wii fit?
Love Jamie E xxxxx
P.s. no crocs in the river.

Hi to the Oakes Family,
Thank you for your blog comments the other day. I’m on the mend and Mum they’re nothing on your ice pops but I’ve managed to wangle a few ice lollies as a reminder of home comforts. Hopefully, I’ll be back on my feet again soon and able to head out the Hosaheggudilu to finish the project with the rest of the group. I’m glad to hear that the Wimpenny’s received my letter and that you will soon be reading it – I also received a letter from you and one from Jenni & Daniel a few days ago which was really nice. Don’t worry I’m being looked after very well and I’m sure you’ll be kept up to date with my progress.
Looking forward to seeing you all at Christmas, love to all,
Mads
xxx

Hello all! Adventure going well, trekking going well. Can somebody please pick me up from the airport (Heathrow). Please please please, it is Christmas, you haven't seen me for six months!

Charlotte Ali

(Flight details to come!)

Hey everyone, lots of love coming your way! Having a very exciting time here, lots of stories for when I get back! Dad the hat is still with me, though resembles a pancake. All good! Thanks for the blog messages and mail I've been getting. Koala - I'm getting pretty hot on my PA lyrics, will be number one fan by Feb! Tasha and Sean - got the letter, hard work will pay off guys but remember to play hard too! Off to work now, take care, love Holly xxx

Happy birthday Tahira!!! Sending lots of love from Kerala, enjoy your day, Michael Stern xxx

Here we go for one more time!

2009-11-25T22:04:00.009+05:30

An old fashioned game of sardines kicked started allocations for phase 3 as venturers scrambled to find their well hidden PMs for the final phase. Groups found, everyone set about the task of packing group kit, tools and food for the next three weeks. This is no easy task and although the team are becoming old hands at this, it still involves many hours of counting, allocating, checking and re-checking. A special treat of chilli con carne cooked by our very own Amanda, another spectacular slide show by the Comms team Ali and Alison and some inspiring words of wisdom by Mark and we were ready to deploy.

FB team do our best to trick venturers into staying with us

Kate appearing from a barrel for not the first time on exped

Members of the new Charlie 3 find Leti and Claire hidden in the Bravo vehicle

In order to make it down to Kerala in daylight hours, the trekkers have to head off at 6am, and there were huge hugs, well wishes and even some tears as we sent them on their way. A more relaxed start for the other groups who left us by 9am. I think these photos taken by Ali, our fantastic photographer, really show how much this team means to each other and how much they care for each other. As a staff member it is truly a wonderful moment to share with everyone.

So heading off as part of Charlie 1 to finish the school in Mutilmoola are PMs David, Kate and Mili with Lee, Baz, Emma, Mathew, Beth, James Eyles, Chloe, Pik, Dan, Shamnad and Prajeesh. The group will work to finish the school, toilets and choolas in time for the opening ceremony on December 12.

Kit, Shamnad and Baz say goodbye

PMs Kate and Mili share a moment

Meanwhile, undertaking a brand new sustainable agricultural project in Hosaheggudilu (yes it's quite the tongue twister!) Charlie 3 will be led by PMs Helen, Claire and Leti with Maddy, Rahman, Claire, Amy, Holly, Bill, Adam, Ben, Colin and Vinay. The group will stay in a school in this small village and work alongside our project partner Mykaps on a sustainable agricultural project designed to boost the livlihoods of local farmers.

Double trouble - Leti and Helen

The brilliant Bill bids us farewell

and goodbye from Vinay

Echo 4 heading off to the forest to finish off theChowdhalli Ranger Station and Elephant Proof Trench will be led by the lovely Jeff and Frankie with Alain, James Guerney, Toby, John Paul, David Hildreth, Tina, Aravind, Pip, Nanette and Laura. The group has a big task ahead of them to finish the walls and floors of the building before it is officially opened on December 13.

Pip showing her support for the trekkers

Beaming smiles from Frankie and Toby

Tango 6 will begin their adventure with a two-day rafting trip before heading off on their 200km trek through the beautiful Kerala. They will be led by the brilliant Dr Dave and Katie with Charles, Tony, Morten, Louis, Cristina, Chris, Sam, John Emmerson, Georgie Page, Shyam and Mikey.

Miriam our FB medic tries to sneak off with the Tango 6 girls Katie and Dave

Breakfast on the run for Chris

Tango 6 - ready to roll Indian style and below Mikey with the prized team mascot

And last but not for a second least is Tango 7 who have the privilege of being joined by the self named 'King of India' Adam, and led by Charlie and Amy. The lucky team members are Luke, Jamie Green, Anthony, Tor, Georgie Webb, Thomas, Avaneesh, Nicola, John Springate and Boops. These guys will start trekking tomorrow and continue for the next couple of weeks before ending on the rafts.

"I'm the king of India!" ... if you say so Adam And huge smiles from Jamie, John, Luke and Thomas

So that's where we are at folks - and as we head rapidly towards the conclusion of expedition our message to venturers and staff is to remember every day to wake up and make the absolute most of every opportunity that presents itself. The following reading really conveys this message, we shared it with the venturers last night and I thought it would be nice to share it with you now.

The Station

Tucked away in our subconscious is an idyllic vision. We see ourselves on a long trip that spands the continent. We are traveling by train. Out the window we drink in the passing scene of cars on nearby highways, of children waving at a crossing, of cattle grazing on a distant hillside, of smoke pouring from a power plant, of row upon row of corn and wheat, of flatlands and valleys, of mountains and rolling hillsides, of city skylines and village hails.

But uppermost in our minds is the final destination. On a certain day at a certain hour we will pull into the station. Bands will be playing and flags waving. Once we get there, so many wonderful dreams will come true and the pieces of our lives will fit together like a completed jigsaw puzzle. How restless we pace the aisles, damning the minutes for loitering - waiting, waiting, waiting for the station.
"When we reach the station that will be it!" we cry. "When I'm 18" "When I buy a new 450SI Mercedes Benz!" "When we put the last kid through college" "When I have paid off the mortgage" "When I get promoted" "When I reach the age of retirement, I shall live happily ever after!"

Sooner or later we must realise that there is no station, no one place to arrive at once and for all. The true joy of life is the trip. The station is only a dream. It constantly outdistances us.

"Relish the moment" is a good motto. It isn't the burdens of today that drive men mad. It is the regrets over yesterday and the fear of tomorrow. Regret and fear are twin thieves who rob us of today.

So stop pacing the aisles and counting the miles. Instead, climb more mountains, eat more icecream, go barefoot more often, swim more rivers, watch more sunsets, laugh more, cry less. Life must be lived as we go along. The station will come soon enough.
By Robert J Hastings

Don't forget if you have been inspired by reading this blog there is no reason you yourself can't "Get Out Here" with us, India would love to have you!
Anna
Country Expedition Manager

Do we have talent - yes, yes we do!

2009-11-25T18:24:00.015+05:30

Judging by the blog messages it sounds like you guys were just as excited as we were by our attempt to discover the hidden talents of 09J - and discover we did.From Matt and Amy's classic tango to Tor playing the spoons, to Baz and Pik's ventriloquist act and Mark's impression of Simon Cowell, what was very clear is that we have an incredibly talented bunch of people here in India.

The judges headed by our very special guest The King of India (aka Adam from head office) deliberated for what seemed like hours, before finally deciding on Charlie 2 and their Indian themed epic which in true Bollywood style covered perhaps ten different genres and just as many themes. Alain was the true star playing his role perfectly supported by Jamie Green in his debut role as a goat.

In close second was Charlie 1 with the most impressive medley of song and dance that either myself or Mark has seen in any Raleigh expedition.

The night capped another fantastic changeover for 09J, as frantic and busy as they are they are certainly my favourite time here as it chance for us to hear the most incredible stories which each and every person has to share.

But before you know it they have headed out again and even as I write this I am fielding SITREPS from each of the teams as they settle into their new group and new project. We will of course be updating you on their progress and letting you know as often as we possibly can about their adventures. Until then our very best wishes from everyone on 09J.

Winding Down and Dressing Up

2009-11-20T13:27:00.002+05:30

The Field Base team are currently preparing for the return of all the groups this coming Monday. It's hard to believe that second phase has nearly finished already but we have got some fantastic excitement to look forward to in the form of a 'Britain's Got Talent' style competition on Monday night. After hearing about the extensive rehearsals that are going on in each of the groups we should be in for a good night!

Alison and Claire left two days ago to go down and join Tango 7 who, after being rained on for most of their trek, have today gone to get even wetter rafting down the Periyar River. We will be able to bring you news, messages and photos of their trip after the weekend.

In the other groups Charlie One have been building toilets next to the houses and digging holes for the septic tanks. The school roof is finished and they spent yesterday with Mr Ranganathen from the CTRD Trust visiting another village where Raleigh hopes to carry out some similar projects in the future.

Charlie 2 also had a day trip yesterday to a village called Kalaianahalla where Raleigh built 45 eco-sanitation units earlier in 2009. The group got the opportunity to carry out some monitoring and evaluation and see the long term benefits of the work that Raleigh does. Back in Halsur they have completed one vermi-compost unit and are working on a second and have built two water tanks. When Field Base visited earlier in the week, it was obvious how much the group have become part of the community. Work was routinely interupted by villagers bringing out chai for the group and the girls enjoyed being dressed in traditonal sarees and jewellery by one of the ladies in the village.

Left to right: Aravind, John, Chris, Mike, Nicky and Tina

Left to Right: Nicky, Mili, Christina and Tina

In Chowdhalli, Echo 4 have finished plastering the inside and outside of the Ranger Station and continue to make excellent progress on widening and deepening the Elephant Proof Trench. Echo 4 are due to pay a visit to the village of Ramaranai this weekend on route back to Field Base to see how the water gravity system built on the last expedition is benefitting the community there.

Finally Echo 5 spent yesterday at Kabini dam celebrating Charles' birthday. Their work at the Anti-Poaching Camp has been hindered by the unpredictable weather which has affected their route into the forest meaning they have not always been able to go to work. They have however remained immensely cheerful and have still made amazing progress on the Elephant Proof Trench and started clearing firelines around the camp. They have also dug the hole for a toilet block behind the APC. In response to his many birthday messages Charles has asked us to send the following message to the Lockharts:

Thanks very much for all the messages. Had a brilliant birthday - most amazing ever! Went swimming near a dam and got a special birthday meal. Truely having the time of my life here in Echo 5. Quit your jibba jabba and about the letter I've already sent three but keep hearing English postal system is in a mess. Hope you receive them soon. I've got all your letters to date, including the card and birthday present was amazing!!! It was great to show Indian Tony a bit about where I live. Missing you all loads, including everyone who sent me a message (it took a while to read them to me over the radio!) Lots of love Charles P.S. Please, please, please don't send anything to so with Swarbrick, for the love of God. P.P.S. The jam was amazing.

That's all from Field Base for now but stay tuned for news from Tango 7, third phase allocations and of course the highlights from Raleigh's Got Talent!

Right: Davina's tickets for Monday's show hot off the press!

Digging and the rain

2009-11-15T17:04:00.001+05:30

Echo 4 in the forest

Moycey and I have just got back from visiting E4, E5 and C1 and there's been a great deal of digging going on in each group, but there's also been a fair bit of torrential rain to disrupt the proceedings. Fortunately the rain calmed down while we were there so the groups got a bit of a break from the wet and Moycey was able to get some good photos.

Pik and Avaneesh get sifting

E4 are working really hard on the ranger station and the plastering on the inside has now been completed. They've also been sifting sand for the cement through a giant, and quite flimsy, sieve and digging a hole for the septic tank.

We were treated to some fabulous food as the group decided to mark our arrival by having a cook off between two teams. One team made a couple of very impressive pizzas (they'd bought some fresh ingredients while on their day off the day before), using the facilities created by the previous Echo 4 group. I'm sure the ex Echo 4 lot will be pleased to know their oven is being put to good use! The second team made a gorgeous curry with some delicious rice and chappatis made from scratch. Although both teams' efforts were excellent, Team Curry won by a small margin after also being able to produce a pudding with left over chappatis and bananas. Ten out of ten for creativity!

Team Curry's creative efforts!

The next day we set off to Echo 5's site. The amount of rain had rendered the road too difficult for the jeep on previous days but we must have brought the sunshine as we managed to catch the group on a full day's work. They were digging a hole for the toilet block which meant soil had to be transferred from the hole to the other side of the elephant proof trench. The whole team had to set up a chain that involved some people (Ben, Charles and Holly) standing in the trench to pass the heavy buckets and then after they'd been emptied on the other side they were flung back over to the diggers, often covering everyone in the middle with mud!

Charles ready to catch the soil from Chloe

Ben and Shamnad watch the elephant

Our journey out of the forest that evening was filled with excitement as a lone bull elephant was standing by a waterhole near the road. There was no danger of being trampled so we were able to get out of the jeep and watch it for some time. Although the Echo groups see elephants fairly regularly, it makes a nice change to be able to see one so close and without any trees for it to hide behind. And it was certainly a special treat for us fieldbase staff.

That evening we were also treated to an amazing meal - a veggie version of an English breakfast - thanks to camp crafters of the day, Beth and Tony.

As it was Maddy's 19th birthday the next day they'd arranged a trip into Mysore to take a tour the silk factory, and as they left their camp, we also set off for our last group of the loop, Charlie 1.

The school in Multimoola is now covered in scaffolding - Indian-style - and the cement is drying on the roof, so while that is happening there has been lots of transporting stones and gravel, sifting sand, brick laying and unsurprisingly, lots more digging!

Luke puts the finishing touches to his mural

Luke has also put his creative talent to good use by painting one of the sides of the houses with a brilliant and colourful mural which really brightens up the village.

Charlie 1

The group's hard work was rewarded that evening as the village teacher invited us all round for pre-dinner snacks of hot plantain, boiled eggs and a selection of Indian sweets served with chai. The group were also able to catch up on some sports news as he treated us to a bit of TV! So it seems all groups are eating well and fieldbase staff are keen to get out to each group again. As that's our only loop trip this phase to the Echo groups and Charlie 1, we're hoping the trip to Charlie 2's tomorrow in Halsur will also live up to the our now very high food standards!

Here's some messages from the groups:
From Pik:

Thank you all so much for the birthday wishes (including comments on the blog, SMS and birthday card by post, I received and read them all ready.) I had a great birthday here. I am now in Team Echo 4 and working in an environmental project which we have to renovate a 101 year old house to be a ranger station. I am camping in the project site which is located in a jungle and I had chance to see wild deer just in front of me! (May go to see elephant tomorrow if it is sunny). I got my new glasses finally so everything is fine now. Oh right now I really realise that I have no chance to lose weight here even though I am working really hard today, coz I eat way too much…. Miss you all!
To gangs in Nine Lives: I can’t stop laughing when reading the birthday card, thank you so much, whoever reads this please help me to pass this message to the others and please also help me to wish Queenie having a good show.
For Sammi Concert with all my regards thanks!!!
Xxx

Hi Dad, Nat & Alice,
Got your messages, sound like you’re having a wonderful time. It’s finally stopped raining in the forest which is good! Am still having a lovely time, but am looking forward to Goa more and more! I can’t believe Alice is sitting up already, she’s going to be huge when I see her next! Can’t wait! What was the name of the town we stayed in Goa? Calangute? I’m becoming a little dubious about my lack of planning, but oh well, will just see what happens. Also got what I’ve assumed is a birthday card from you but am saving it for the 19th so thank you for that too!
Anyway love you all and see you in December
India xxx

Mum
Are you ignoring me?!
Not cool woman!
Hope you’re ok,
Love you India
Xxx

Hi Mum, Dad, Matt, Jodie, Ben & J-Dogg,
In the middle of Bandipur forest I have yet to see an elephant or tiger however I have plans to attract them to the campsite. Its been raining lots here however we finally have sun, time to get some washing done! Got stung by caterpillar of death but alls well. I also got Granny’s letter, parents you seem to be slacking in this department. Having a great time, hope you’re all well.

Matt, Jodie, Ben & James,
I’m alive and miss you a little but then the thought passes as I turn my attention to ants or butterflys.
See you in December
Love Emma xxx

From Ben
Daddio, Mumbly, Danger Dan & Monkey, Gregor, Calco, Nannybears, Colleen & Yvan, Barbara & Co, Valerie & Grandad, David & Liz
All good here – writing this from my “basha” – hand-made from bamboo, string and material. Yep, Echo 5 now. We are in Bandipur National Park digging an elephant proof trench around an anti-poaching camp. We take a jeep in everyday that takes about half an hour passing deer and occasionally elephants in the distance. Today we got out the jeep to take a good look at one a few hundred metres away. Hope you had a good birthday Dan and enjoyed Glasgow. Dad! Rowing lessons – nice one – anything to do with Colin per chance? Mum – glad the bangers and mash was tasty – we ate an Indian dish cooked by the Indian guys (Shamnad and Tony) that had the consistency of mash. Cal – internship sounds like its going well – hope so, hit me with it on my return. Greg – hope all’s good beastman.
Love to all
Ben x
PS Mum, those tiny scissors are tosh but the sarong is sterling

From James:

The Gurneys
We are having an amazing time in Mutilmoola – helping to build a school and toilet facilities for the tribal community. Some of the digging, carrying and sieving has been quite tiresome but seeing the impact we are making is really rewarding. We have also enjoyed days out to Sultan Bathery, the CTRD Trust and a tea factory. The weather has been quite moist but escapades like a massive mud fight have kept spirits high. Happy Birthday to Tom, Dad & Lucy. Thank you for your letters – I received the ones from you and granny today.
Lots of Love
James x

The Crocketts
M,D & S
Big hello from Mutilmoola! We are having an amazing time helping to build a school, which involves a lot of hole digging, sifting sand & moving bricks. The community is brilliant (especially the kids!). Hope you are all ok, miss you lots.
Love from Philipa xxx

To James
Here is your own personal blog! Got your letter today which was nice, thank you. Its been very rainy the last few days, we’ve had mud fights, hair washing sessions in the rain, our house was flooded! But luckily the rain went yesterday. The children here are adorable, I love seeing them all the time and they help us with the work which is cute. Hope you’re having enough days off, Mum said you’re working too hard.
Love you loads
Georgie Page xxxx

To Mum, Dad, Charlie & Abbie,
I got the package today which was amazing, thank you so much. Please also thank Nikki for her package and say hi to Alice & Joy and the Canadian Pages thank you. The kids here are awesome, they are always so happy and love spending time with us. Arun (10 years old) was looking at a pic of us three and thought Abbre was me! Says we are “double Georgie”! Glad Rome was great, over half way now, is going so quick.
Lots of love to you all and everyone at home who reads this.
Georgie Page xxxxx

Dear Hamiltons (and Malcolmsons!)
Thank you thank you for my package! I got very excited when I received it – all the way out here is our little village Mutilmoola. Very sad that I missed you (Liz & Dave) at fieldbase if that’s where you dropped the package off. Hope you are enjoying India. I love it. Hi to Rors, Ali & the dogs too. Looking forward to seeing you at Christmas, lots of love
Amy xx

Dad, Mothership & Sara B,
Hope you are all good. Its great here. I’m playing loads of cricket with the kids and learning loads about Indian culture. Letters on their way to Goftdown and Jagerslaan, hope you get them! First 20/20 today, I wonder how the boys did… my hopes aren’t high. Makhayas on fire!!! Let me know about how the trials are going & if Ferds hears anything about Middlesex.
Lots of love, can’t wait to see you all!
Tor xxx

Hej Allesammen
Elsker det stadig herude, er paa community phase. Bygger skole og leger med boernene. Massere af regn men stadig massere af sjou. Besoegte en the fabrik forleden. Haaber i har faaet mit breu fra phase 1. Jeg kan chekke internet paa mandag nok saa sender lige en mal.
Savner jer alle meget, haaber i har det godt!
KH Morten

Hi Mam
Got your letter and postcards on the loop. The photo of us all was great and all the villagers were fascinated by it. Having a great time this phase, different to the jungle, the work’s just as hard though, but just as rewarding. Time’s going so quick, can’t believe we’re half way through already. Hope everything’s ok your end and work’s fine. Marie – great to hear from you. The beards still coming along nicely and even letting the hair get longer. Work sounds stressful but at least you’ve got a nice trip to Oz coming up. Haven’t heard from Dad for a while so let him know I’m still alive when you see him. Wedding plans sound all good – looking forward to hearing all about it when I’m home.
Love to all of you.
Luke x

From Neil:
Lots of jungle love to my Dad for November 18th, happy birthday! x

The Magnificent (Tango) 7

2009-11-15T12:01:00.001+05:30

The rain hasn't stopped PMs Frankie, Dave and Andrea from looking happy

Hello, it’s stand in logistics manager Kate here. I’ve just returned from an epic 1000km road trip down to Kerala with 60-60 to drop food for Tango 7. Although they are battling some pretty atrocious weather conditions they are flying through their kilometres. I joined them for a night and was hugely impressed by their high spirits. Jamie and Amy did a great job of organising all the food whilst PM Dave dug trenches (with a spatula!) around the tents to stop them flooding.

Matt and Bill

David H led a great group review as day leader. Toby and Jamie cooked a fantastic dinner whilst everybody dried out over the fire, Matt’s method of drying his boxer shorts provoking particular amusement. The loop shop sold out of chocolate in short order with Nanette and Laura being just two of the many who stocked up for the next week.

Frankie created a fantastic quiz which was won by Matt, Amy, Andrea and myself and Bill narrated several nail-biting games of mafia with Claire proving particularly adept at avoiding detection. The morning finally brought sunshine and every trekker’s favourite breakfast, porridge, the joys of which Prajeesh and Rahman are slowly being converted to! There’ll be another food drop on Wednesday so if you have any messages then please leave them for us to take down, they all really appreciate your words of support and encouragement.

Prajeesh and Rahman

Here's some messages from the group:

Hi Mum, Dad, Tom and everyone else,

I am having a brilliant time in Kerala trekking despite the freak weather – it has hardly stopped raining since we got here. My group is really nice and is staying positive through the challenge of the weather – which is reminding me of Dartmoor D of E. The scenery is stunning here and the food is amazing. Hope you are all well, especially Auntie Gillian and that life is not too quiet without me.
Lots of love Amy xxx
PS I’ve already had two leech bites and am expecting more – and they don’t even bother me anymore! See you in 5 weeks.

A vous tous!
Suis an plein trek ds le Kerala, il drache an permanence, on marche +/- 15km /jour depuis le 3, pas encore eu l’occaz de prendre une douche hmh! Toutes mas affaires sont trempées y compris les tentes et mon sac de couhage dur d’enfiler des chaussures & chaussettes novillees a 5 am! Paysages magnifiques & villages charmants. Sangsues par-tout, meme sur mon menton! San mentionner les blattes. Je vous embrasse tous très fort et hb a ade! (13/11)
xxx Claire

Hello Anne, Tom , Ceri, Pat, Ken, Maya, Sam, Mum and everyone else!
We’re on the trek – we’ve done about 60km so far in five days. The weather isn’t too bad – it’s only rained continuously for five of them. We got to the top of the highest mountain in Southern India and slid down the other side in hysterics. We were surrounded by wild elephants in our camp one night. We’ve eaten wonderful food from street vendors in villages. We’ve all been blood sucked by leeches – my personal count so far is five. The landscape is beautiful – sometimes it looks like north Wales if you ignore the tropical trees. Just enjoyed delicious lime tea made with limes from a tree next to our tent.
David xx

Hi Dan,
How are you, I’m missing you more than ever. I’m on trek and we’re getting rained on really really badly. I got a leech on my face too! We summited the second highest mountain in southern India which was amazing. I’m longing for a hot bath, a duvet and a real fire in the lounge!
Love you, Frankie xxx

Hi Mum & Dad,
Could you put a word in upstairs for the rain to stop please? We’re getting monsooned through Kerala and the trek is tougher than ever for everyone. We’re wet and covered in leeches but still standing. When Tango 7 complete this it will be a huge achievement and I’m looking forward to the day! Keep us in your thoughts and prayers.
Love Frances xxx

Hello,
I am Rahman, now I am trekking in Kerala. It is going well, this is our fifth day. We are in Chathunangapara. It here heavy rain going on. We got lots of leeches. We are all happy with the trek. This is the best part is own life. Happy to all Raleigh family.
By Rahman, Kondotty, Kerala

Hey Mum & Dad,
The trekking is really hard but enjoyable at the same time. It has been constantly raining (monsoon?!) for five days now so the tent is soaked completely. It is a lot drier to sleep in the shelter when there is one at the campsite. That said I still have some dry clothes left so it is not all bad. These Primark tackie are holding are holding up really well. I do have a massive blister on my right little toe which is affecting the way I walk. Remind me to complain to Berghaus when I get back as my boots should not be in the state that they are in under a year. At least they are waterproof so my feet are dry if the socks are not.
Love Jammy Dodger xxx

Hey Holly,
I’m not sure if you got my reply on the blog or the letter for that matter! If you read this I have been trekking for a while now in constant rain le monsoon so the tents are soaked through. I’ve been carrying a 26-28 kilo bag depending on how wet it is. I’m perfectly fine apart from a couple of blisters especially on my little toe its is affecting the way I’m walking. I feel like I’m putting weight on during the trek just due to demolishing all the snacks that I can find. I also managed to successfully start my fishing career earlier today with a basic stick and line and caught a fish within five minutes. My hair is growing quickly though not that much at the sides. Thinking of you loads and I believe that it is fine you to stay on the 17th.
Love you lots xxxxxxxx
Jamie Eyles
PS I haven’t got your letter yet.

Halsur holes and frisbee fun

2009-11-09T11:59:00.016+05:30

Charlie 2 outside Halsur school

Ex-environmental project venturers who are now in Charlie 2 have been able to put their elephant proof trench digging skills to good use this week. We went out to see the group in Halsur and were surprised by how much they'd been able to do in just a few days. They've started on the vermi-compost unit, the holes for the water storage tanks are coming on well and soon they'll be starting on the bunds in the fields.

The vermi compost unit underway

Shyam shifts bricks for the vermi compost unit in a villager's back garden

They're currently sleeping in the school (the village children are using another building for the time being), which is looking very homely, and are being catered for with plenty of breaks for hot sweet chai! Which means the group also gets time to play with the many village children, help them with their English and take lots of photos.

The children are happy to pose for Christina

Alain has a break for frisbee

The loop vehicle is to set off to the environmental groups and Charlie 1 soon so on our return we'll be able to tell you how those groups are getting on. But some messages from Charlie 2 first...

To Libby and Mum, cheers for all the blog messages, doing well on the community project, it's really good. Missing all, Crimbo. Rwarries x

To Lorraine and Gwenny, Alain and Tina here. Just to let you know we are having a fantastic time in Charlie 2! We have already done lots of work and love playing with the children here. Thanks for the messages on the blog mum. Alain is missing his shower and his bed but he can finally eat with his hands so all is well! Lots of love Tina and Alain.

Hey everyone, thanks for the messages! Great to hear from you. I'm still having an amazing time, it's going so quick. Had a day trip out yesterday to a buddhist colony which was awesome. Keep me updated about any news. Speak to you soon, Love Christina x PS. G - new year?

Hey everyone, I'm doing great and had a fantastic birthday. We went to a buddhist temple and then went swimming. Charlie 2 threw a great party in the evening with balloons, cake and body paint. Glad to hear about the Yankees; sadly no one else cares. Also very happy to hear about the CELTA. I miss you all so much! Love Jaime Green.

Hey guys, Halsur is really good - went to a buddhist temple.. in south India. Had some 60ft statues at Buddha. Also went to a wildlife park. Mum, your camera's given up the ghost but loads of people are taking good pictures - I'll just get them to send them to me. Hope everything's going well at home. Lots of love, Mike.

Hey Darndy (For 12th November), Hope you're having an awesome time in London - email me about how it goes. Have agreat day! And Mum - please tell Darndy this message is here ;o). Lots of love, Mike x

The Sound of Silence

2009-11-04T16:22:00.000+05:30

After two jam-packed days of stories, photos, laughter, energy, project allocations, fun and games, an air of sadness has fallen over Fieldbase as we waved off the last bus of venturers at around 9am this morning.

Andrea and Charlie say goodbye

Second phase of the expedition will run until 23rd November, and during this period we will, as always, be updating you on the project developments and the progress of the trekkers. The new groups were announced yesterday lunchtime and so without further ado here's the new Phase Two 09J line-up (add your own drum roll here):

Charlie 1 - Multilmoola Village Community Project
The venturers accompanying PMs Charlie and Amy to continue the building of the school are: Tor, Morten, Luke, Georgie (Page), James (Gurney), Boops, Anthony, Louis, John Paul and Philippa. Mutley from the Logs Team at Fieldbase will also be joining them for the first half of the phase.

Charlie 2 - Halsur Sustainable Agriculture
Heading up this new project are PMs Helen and Mili together with the following venturers: Chris, Tina, Georgie (Webb), John (Springate), Nicola, Alain, Michael, Christina, Jamie (Green), Aravind and Shyam.

Vijay bids farewell to Shyam

Echo 4 - Bandipur Ranger's Station
PMs Katie, Neil and Jeff are being joined by the following group to finish renovating the Ranger's Station and improving the Elephant Proof Trench: Sam, Daniel, Colin, Baz, Adam, Emma, Pik, John (Emmerson), Vinay, India and Avaneesh.

Echo 4 load their food barrels onto the bus

Echo 5 - Anti-poaching Camp and Firelines
In new accommodation but continuing the excellent work from phase one are PMs Leti and Miriam joined by: Charles, Chloe, Maddy, Holly, Beth, Lee, Kit, Ben, Shamnad, Thomas and Tony.

Tango 7 - Adventure in Kerala - Trekking then Rafting
Leading the following group of venturers are PMs Frankie and David with new edition to the PM team, our very own Logistics Manager Andrea: Amy, Claire, Bill, Laura, Nanette, David, James (Eyles), Matt, Rahman, Toby and Prajeesh.

David, Rahman, Matt and Claire

New editions to the Fieldbase Team

As we wave Mili off to Charlie 2, we are more than excited to be joined by the lovely Davina as the new Fieldbase medic. Fresh from trekking in Kerala with Tango 6, we're sure her energy and amazing selection of colourful 'Happy Pants' (trousers as opposed to underwear) will fuel us all into action again.

As Andrea and Mutley are both out on project this phase we are lucky enough to be joined by Kate who will be handling all the logistics in their absence. We are slightly concerned that Kate's unhealthy obsession with Bourbon biscuits may lead to a food shortage situation in Phase Three if she is left alone in the food store for long periods of time.

Left: Kate caught on security camera entering the Logs Store.....nice try Kate!

New Fieldbase medic, Davina

Venturer Hellos and Goodbyes
For the past four days, the girls at fieldbase were joined by four new venturers who have joined us for Phases Two and Three of the expedition. Jamie Green from New York City, Thomas Cornelis from the Netherlands and Anthony Wilson and Toby Drax from the UK kept us entertained until the groups returned back on Tuesday. We hope they have as much fun on their first phase as all the other venturers did.

Left to right: Jamie, Anthony, Toby and Thomas

Jamie, Anthony and Thomas are joined by Rahman at Mysore Palace

Sadly we said goodbye to one of our Explorer Venturers Charlie Elgy this morning. Charlie spent his phase in Multimoola working on the school building and will be missed by us all but especially the other members of Charlie 1. Keep in touch Charlie!

Finally, here are a last few messages from those who headed off today.

Message from Charlotte Ali
Mum I am alright, back on the bus to Multilmoola. Keep watching the blog. Family still doing you proud - love you all, hugs and kisses to everyone. Gareth and Louise let me know the outcome, send me a scan photo. Twin sister of mine - How ya doing crazy horse? Hope the new job's going well, bet you got all those fit doctors to look at. You can tell me all about it when I am back. Miss you loads sis! Doing you proud!! Love and miss you! Charl xx Dad pull your finger out and send me a message ;o)

Hi Guys, had an AMAZING phase - pretty sad about leaving my current group but one of the most fun guys is in my group again (yes I mean you Chris...). I think I got lucky in my group again though, everyone seems cool. Sent a slightly longer update to Darndy so get her to pass it on to you - it's an interesting tale involving tigers and cobra. Tai - I've got someone sorting me out a sim, but he couldn't get it done in time - hope you're enjoying yourself. Lots of love Mike x

Hey Holly Winslip. I'm sorry that it has taken so long to reply, I didn't read your message on the blog until yesterday. It was really great to hear from you. I'm now part of Tango 7 so I'm about to do the trekking phase. My bag weighs 26kg :o) The letter hasn't arrived yet and it was fine for you to come over and stay on 17th. Love you xxxx James Eyles (Jammy Dodger) p.s. I'm not too keen on the haircut either.
Hi Mum and Dad, I'm about to start the trekking phase so am now part of Tango 7. I'm glad you like the Wii Fit so much - I wouldn't rely on the fitness age in it though. It is a bit weird with charging the camera, it only charges for 4 seconds then stops so can't take many pictures. Love James Eyles xx

Charlie 1 and the Echos

2009-10-31T20:05:00.000+05:30

The school is coming on fast in Multimoola

My last loop trip involved a visit to Charlie 1 and the two environmental groups. I must have jinxed the weather at Multimoola as shortly after we arrived the heavens opened and work had to be stopped. Not that many of the group minded as they'd had a good night the night before at a different village taking part in some tribal dancing and most of the group were pretty exhausted! The school and the toilets are looking great though and it was great to see how much the work had progressed since Moycey did her loop trip out there earlier in the phase.

Nanette and Charles bust some Bollywood moves with the local children

I was lucky enough to spend my birthday there which was a real privilege. That evening we were invited in to a local family's house to watch the children entertain us with some fantastic Indian dancing and singing. Charles was a hit with the kids with his enthusiastic attempt at Bollywood moves and India took one of her CDs along so they could hear her music too.

Later on they treated me to a birthday cake that said 'Happy Birthday Alifoyn' (I think the phonetic alphabet got a bit confused on the phone!) and we all tucked into that as a treat.

Claire kneads the bread at Echo 4

I also visited the Echo groups as part of my loop trip. Echo 4 treated us to some freshly baked bread from the oven they had created themselves - most impressive!

They've also got on brilliantly with renovating the ranger's station, with all the tiles now cleaned and back on the roof and the elephant proof trench is almost fully elephant proof!

Mike, Jamie and Katie with some of the clean tiles

In their breaks they're managing to fit in some well-earned games of cricket and a bit of chilling out after so much physical work.

Boops and Chris take some time out to read the blog

Echo 5 in the meantime have moved out of the forest and are being brought onto the site by jeep each morning. All the more opportunity to try and catch a sighting of those elusive elephants! Their trench is looking fantastic, they've all worked really hard, and the group are all in good spirits with plenty of energisers to get them going before they start work.

Georgie, Frankie and Matt take part in an energiser

And we have some more messages from venturers... just a couple...

From Chris Braggs:

Hi Juliette Prodger, Got your letter, am very pleased, still got to read it though. Ranger station progression is coming along fast. Loads of hard work from whole group. Big caterpillars over here, lost a member of the group, Rehman, but he’s fine and chilling at field base. Speak soon. Is Summer nicking my girlfriend? LOL.
Crimbo x

To Libby, yah un, miss ya lots, it’s a jammy stain keeps making me laugh. Letters have been sent out. Lots of lovage love Crimbo xx RWARR :-)

Johnny-oh. Hey man, how’s Wilkos? Surprised still working LOL. Miss your stories.
SPIDER_MAN

To Laura Wren: Hey, how’s things going? Long time no hear. How’s Grace and Luke? Don’t worry, won’t mention Andrew and Ellie. You alright? Run out of money here, didn’t estimate what I still had to buy. Hopefully mother can help out. India is amazing. Crimbo xx

To Ben Prodger: How’s things? Haven’t forgot about you LOL. Hope things are well, write a message back. Haven’t seen any tigers yet. Crimbo

From Jamie: Hey you are going for more walks with cake at the end, I thought that you were both on a diet?! Hmmm, how did you manage to get in touch with the macqillions? That’s pretty cool with Andrew being at catering college, yeah deffo need some tips from him. I’m really touched by Steven’s interest. Tell her to write on the blog, there is nothing stopping her, she can be kept more up to date and I can talk to her. The sleepwalking isn’t dangerous, I tend to wake up sitting bolt upright. The human buckaroo generally involves me as the buckaroo as I am fast asleep and then the rest of Echo 4 balance objects on me and see if I wake up. I’m waiting to play buckaroo without being the buckaroo! The only real danger is the caterpillars that abseil down from the trees because you can have a serious reaction to them landing on you. I don’t know if I will have an allergic reaction but I don’t intend to find out. Cheers for trying to get in touch with Holly, her email may not work, she doesn’t check the email often. You could try sending her a letter and telling her about the blog that way. It could be quicker than email, failing that a call on her mobile, I can give you the number if you don’t know. I’m getting a lot stronger from all the digging and shifting rubble. So if dad needs help in the garden with clearing and cutting, you should be able to trust me with the garden stuff now. Hopefully mum will be more relaxed about it, now that I am doing Raleigh. Echo 4 is playing cricket with tennis balls as I’m writing this message so I’m having to dodge the balls or having very lucky escapes. Better not push my luck any further for now though so bye, Jammy Dodger xxxxx

Now then Neil! Great to hear from you! Bad times about the old swine flu. Hope you’re feeling better and definitely up for that birthday drink when I’m home. Big hello to everyone, let them know about the blog. Mam, got two letters, really nice to get them and the grand prix sounded spectacular. Hope you’re doing ok and you had a nice half term. Will try and write a letter back soon but hear there’s a bad postal strike going on. Love to you all, Luke. PS. Thank you Auntie Jean for her message and our kid. Marie – cheeky monkey – the beard’s awesome ;-)

To the Beveridges. Glad you approve of the socks. :-) Coming to the end of the environment phase here, it’s been amazing. Be in touch at changeover, lots of love Nicky xxx

Hey Sara, Mum and Dad. Thanks for the blog messages – the vehicle from fieldbase brought them round today! Celtic scores from Europa League and SPL will be greatly appreciated, also news on the England vs South Africa series – injuries etc! Power monkey is fab! Will Hilary be more afraid of elephants than cows?! So glad you got to Greece, hope you’re having a brilliant time! It’s amazing here – we’re blitzing the ranger’s station. I’ve been attacked by poisonous caterpillars and a hornet but my back and wrist are holding up well! Played cricket at lunch break today! Don’t want to write too much as someone at field base has to type this all up!!! Loads of love, Tor xxx

From Georgie P:
Hi Stacy and Charles. Thank you so much for blogging. Was great to see a message from you. Having such a great time, new experiences and adventures every day! Looking forward to telling you all about it and showing you the pictures, lots of love xxx

Dear M,D,C,A & J. I got all your letters this week, four on Weds and three today. Thank you so much for them all, great to hear from you. Having a great time, feeling really at home in the jungle! But today we got evicted, not all bad though, we just camp outside the forest and jeep it in each day. It was just a slight disagreement between forestry commissions! Oh well. Bashas were good while they lasted. Hope Rome was amazing, thinking of you all. James, I hope Monty was good for you, how was the bed!? Lots of love and hugs xxxxxx

Hey Alice TB. Thanks for the blog, I will write to you very soon! Missing you, hope you’re behaving at uni and working hard! Miss you lots xxx

Hey Mum, Dad and Max. Thanks for the message all is well here, stories to tell of course but having a great time. Sounds like Max is having a great time and I am ‘reight jealous’ about Rev and the Makers. Slightly worried he won’t be my LITTLE bro when I get back, not just height wise! You all seem to be coping great and hope you’re having half as good a time as me. More news will follow once I get back to FB. Much love, Louis, xxx

Hey Polly, loved your message from the Brazilian keyboard! Got it just when I needed it! Hope my letters reach you soon. Hope you are having a great time despite the lack of communications although I’m sure your Portugese is great. Enjoy Brazil, I wonder if it is as warm as it is here and as incredibly hectic (I love India). Enjoy yourself and hope you find a post office soon. Love Louis, xxxxx.

Hi Kate! Project is going well, just been turfed out of the forest for the last four days but it’s all part of the adventure! Have been filming today for the skit, it’s hilarious. Also making a totem pole and have made signs galore etc. Doubt I’ll get the chance online but can you send (email) your London address (and gran/grandpa/granddad etc)? Faustus will be awesome, take some pics and keep all the posters/banners! Have sent mum a birthday card so hope it arrives. Any news of Lindsey or Chris? Keep me posted on how you’re doing :-), lots of love Matt xxx

Hej Martin! Tak for din besked! Jeg far internet Paa mandag! Og har lige skrevet langt brev til alle! Fylder 19 om to dage! Elsker Indien! Haaber alle har det copt! Savner jer allesammen meget! Mange kaerlige hilsner fra Morten!

Hey Mum and Dad, Got your letters this week, was great to get something from home! Hope you had a good week with Paul, Shell and the kids and hope you gave Izzy a hug from me? Having a great time, still it’s going really quick! As you have probably read, our jungle camp is no more, but it all just adds to the experience! Missing you, love Christina xx

Hey G, Still not heard anything from you! I hope work is going well and you’re not overdoing it (like usual!). Missing you a lot, looking forward to New Years already! Love you, Christina xxx

Hi to Mum, Dad, Tom and the whole extended family. We are all having an Indian-style adventure over here after being evicted from our jungle camp. It’s not all bad though – we are now living in a village (civilisation) on the edge of the National Park which is brilliant insight into Indian culture (and further away from vicious wildlife!) and getting ‘jeeped’ in every day. Definitely an experience in itself! Sounds like you’re having a good half term – send my love to all the family and thank the Grahams for their message, and have a great party this weekend. Get Tom on internet-based instruction for Grandma and Val, I’m sure they’ll understand in the end. Lots of love, Amy xxx PS. Please may you send me a letter – I really want more detailed news (including SCD!).

Hey Max, didn’t realise you were off to Cornwall, sounds cool. So I take it you and Libby are going better then? Good! Am currently deciding on which leaf to bring back – so many huge ones! Did some tribal dancing last night, pretty good fun! Can you text nanny for me and say thanks for the card, loved it! Looking forward to seeing you, love you, India xxx.

Dad, Nat and Alice, Thank you for the letters and pictures, Alice looks more beautiful than ever, can’t wait to see her! Dad – you chat rubbish but the Shrek stuff did make me smile! Aus looks gorgeous. Have told the octopus joke a few times – actually got some laughs, shows how crazy the people I’m with are! Made some wonderful friends etc etc. Don’t really want to go home! Love you all, India xxx

Mother, just to say hi. Hope you’re well. Spent last night in a different village which was beautiful, pretty tribal so quite an adventure! I am having a truly amazing time, miss you though! Have you been in touch with Vicky? How is she? Can you ask her to write on the blog? Are all her flights booked? Love you loads, India xxx

Hey Papa! Me rejouis pr Marrakech. Derniere semaine dans la jungle. Je decouvre un tas d’insectes multicolores et je commence a m’habituer aux blattes. Je m’amuse vmt trop ici. Y a deux Hollandaise... suis la seule Belge, on m’a demande tieurs fois “is Belgium in Germany?” haha! Mille kiss a tous – tte phils, Mum, Alix, Joz... PS Joseph serais TMLT heureux entoure de tous les insectes!

Hi Mum, Dad & family & friends!! Sam here, currently sat in our leaking hut in Mutilmoola village! It’s been an incredible journey. We went to a different village for one night last night, stuning views and we got to do some funky tribal dancing with the villagers! Don’t think you got my other blog message?! But please write back. How was Tommy’s birthday?? Hope he’s doing brilliantly, & all’s well with everyone!! Missing you hugely ! I bet he is bouncing about everywhere now. Keep me posted!!! Matthew – thanks for the lovely letter & for helping me out with little man’s birthday. Google maps, haha!! Miss you loads, & hope pub quizzngs going well he he x Steven – thank you for the letter and photos – wonderful to hear from you. Got people laughing with the fancy dress hehehe. I miss you hugely, the P.P.S. was the cutest1, loads of love Sam (Flood) PS keep the letters coming!!!

Hi Mam, Pap, Daphne en Rogier (en Mango,) Nog 3 dagen en het ste project zit erop! Op de eerste mpaar dagen na, is de tijd voor bij geulogen! Net voor het eerst seen wacnzinnige bui gehad, ‘overdekte’ veranda lekt verschrikkelijh. Fantastische uitstapjes gehad, ih hoop dat je mijn uorige blogmessage ooh gelezen hebt en zend plz veel brieuen (al 3 weken hier en nog geen bericht ontvangen.. zijn jullie nog in leven? Nanette xxx PS stuur wat foto’s plz! Ipod altijd leeg xx

Hi Mum, Dad, Leanne, Jenny, Maria, Gareth and the rest of the Waltins – Missing you all like crazy, but have loads of stories to tell you over Christmas! I am back at Mutilmoola helping to build a school and toilets along with bathrooms. How’s me nephews and nieces doing – give them big hugs and kisses and can’t wait to see them when I get home for Christmas! Hope you’re all fit and healthy and its not too cold. Let me know if I am going to be an auntie to another niece or nephew when Gareth and Louise find out – I miss you all lots and lots but I am doing you all proud out here for the Ali family lol!! That’s enough for now Love me xxx Charlotte Ali xxx

Hello Women (and all the family!) Just coming to the end of the community phase. We have most of a school built (who needs a roof?!) and some toilets and washrooms are beginning to look recognisable. We’ve had some great trips out to visit other projects and be entertained by other villagers. I’ll try to put some pictures on the blog or youtube at changeover (we go back to Mysore on Monday) Then, who knows...? Lots of love David x (the group all call me Big Dave – something to do with the waistline I think)

Hello Emmerson family, Just saying India is fantastic lovin it loads. Staying near a place called Sulthan Bathery, look it up. Almost finished building the school. Also can you try and tell Douglas or Farran about the blog so they can send me a message? Big love, signing out. J Emmerson.

Hi Mum and Dad, Katherine, John and Sophie. Having a really good time. Tent broke so I‘ve moved out. We’ve been on a couple of trips including yesterday to another tribal village previously helped by Raleigh which was interesting and we got to do some native dancing, luckily we managed not to get eaten by elephants despite them being on our doorstep! Funny to hear about Grandma – sounds pretty major but rather funny. Still moving tonnes of bricks daily, had a shower in the rain. Loving dancing to Indian music with the very accommodating locals (I look like an ape!) Food is still brilliant, I had a pineapple yesterday. I should really wash my clothes. Looking forward to the next phase. Missing you all, but not too much! Love x Smiles :-) x PS John says whagwan. Charles Lockhart.

Important message!

2009-10-31T08:23:00.000+05:30

This is a message to all at home who are using the blog to send messages to their friends and family on expedition. Thank you for keeping up to date with what we're doing, we hope you're enjoying reading it as much as we are enjoying putting it together.

As you know the comms team of myself and Ali are often out on loop trips to the project sites, which means we can't update the blog all the time and there is often a short delay from when messages are submitted to when they can be approved and posted.

Some recent messages have had inappropriate words in them which have to be edited (or deleted if we can't edit them) before they can be posted, and if they are not in English, this can be more time consuming. Messages with sexual content, swear words, references to drugs etc can not be published.

As a reassurance, if we can't post the messages on the blog, we will be printing them out and passing them on to the venturers when we see them. However, important messages will be passed on over the communications system.

We are aware the Danish messages have been taking longer to approve and unfortunately on this occasion they were submitted while we were on a loop visit. They will be passed on on Monday when the venturers return to Fieldbase.

With all that said, keep checking the blog, we have loads more to tell you as we gear up for changeover and loads more messages from the venturers which are being typed up as we speak!

Pizza Trexpress

2009-10-30T16:32:00.001+05:30

Claire and I were lucky enough to venture down to Kerala this week to join Tango Six for a spot of trekking. Out of all the groups we've visited, Tango Six were the last group I expected to be serving up pizza for dinner! Armed with some flour, tomato puree, a tin of cheese (don't knock it til you've tried it!), a couple of onions and tomatoes, the group rustled up no less than ten pizzas which they cooked on an open fire in true rustic style.

Pip - aka Delia Smith

Tango 6's own Jamie Oliver!

The following morning with the additional armour of leech socks, we headed off early in thick mist to start a day of steep hill climbing.

As always the pay-off was the spectacular views across Kerala before we descended through plantations and farms to the village of Shantampara where we spent the afternoon and evening camping beside the church. Dinner that night consisted of cauliflower and green bean curry and was made even more delicious by the addition of parotha made by Leti and Colin in a nearby restaurant.

Tango Six enjoying a brief rest before the descent to Shantampara

After another early start and a stop off in the village for a second breakfast (yep more food!), we began a long 9hr day of trekking.

Tina, Maddy, Pip and Alain start the climb!

Starting in the village we headed up through cardoman plantations where we had to walk in silence due to the earlier sighting of elephants. We eventually emerged at the top of a hill which overlooked our evening's destination of Lakeside. Due to high water levels however our route had to be changed and we walked an extra 8k around the lake through several villages to reach our campsite just before dark.

Baz stops to admire the view

The group enjoyed some well earned time off the following morning but still got up at 5.30am in the hope of seeing elephants drinking by the lake. There's no doubt this group has got stamina; as Claire and I left them (slightly stiffer and decorated with leech bites), Tango Six were unfazed by the three days of climbing ahead of them. Their main concern was what was in their food drop at their next camp!

Well done and thank you Tango Six for your hospitality and some of the best expedition food ever! Here's some messages from them to you....
Rob, we've got 4 days left trekking and it has been hard work but amazing. Here are a few things that have happened: leeches, mountains, pain, sunburn, dogs with rabies - I will write you aletter to fill you in with the rest. Anyway hope things are okay at home - say hi to Jim and Matt - miss you and love you lots, Pip xxxx
M & D & S Crockett, Justa quick note to let you know I'm still alive and having a great time! Will write a letter when I have a minute. Hope everything's okay at home, missing you all. Lots of love from Booey xxxx
Hi to everyone back home in Chorley! For the first phase I'm part of Tango Six (one of the trekking groups) so far we've walked 150km and kayaked for 2 days. The views have been amazing but I have not been able to shower since the start resulting in a very smelly Maddy. I'm enjoying the many stops we make in villages for local food but I am definitely craving a Jope Hall's pie. Will write a letter at changeover and fill you in properly - love to all, Maddy xx
The Gurneys, Hope everything is okay with you back in the homeland and that the warriors are dominating the premiership (I haven't seen any results). We have now completed approx. 150km of our 200km trek and kayak and except for a few escapades with King Cobras (unconfirmed!), a raging bull, 2 rabied dogs, a bear and a plethora of leeches (5 on 1 foot today before 9am!) everything is hunky dorey. Will write a letter at end of trek in 4 days. Lots of love, James x

Big up the FB crew

2009-10-27T11:57:00.000+05:30

While we're waiting for the next news feeds back from the project sites, I thought it seemed like an appropriate time to point out what a fabulous job all the field base staff are doing and what attracted them to their respective positions. Raleigh is always looking for new staff members and there are plenty of jobs to fill away from the project sites. And India has so much to offer!

Our newly appointed Country Programme Manager Anna, kicks us off.

Why did you choose India?
India chose me. An opportunity came up over the summer for a bespoke expedition - and well, I've pretty much been here ever since!

What has surprised you about India?
Pretty much everything. I still can't get over the scenery and how beautiful it is. I expected the stereotypical cities and slums and am so constantly amazed at the natural beauty of the place. I especially love the forests and the tea plantations.

What's the best part of your role?
I just love getting to know the venturers and supporting them to have a life changing experience. And no two days are ever the same!

One half of the logistics team, Mutley, feels similarly...

Mutley conquering Chamundi Hill

Why did you choose India?
For the diverse cultural mix and to see the real India, out in the villages. It's a land of many contrasts; mountains and beaches. The people are also very friendly and helpful.

What has surprised you about India?
How green it is! And the order and structure that exists beneath the chaos. Everything seems to work most of the time!

What's the best part of your role?
Trying to buy equipment and tools etc in the chaos of the market! The job is quite varied. You can be moving around from project site to project site to project site! It's great seeing the venturers change through the phases of the expedition. Oh and the peanut brittle is pretty good too!

Andrea takes part in the trek training

And here's the other half of the logs team, Andrea:

Why did you choose India?
Many reasons! Some due to time and the length of expedition and the rest for the culture and wildlife. I wanted to have the experience of being able to participate in the culture from the inside out and I think India is one of the few places in the world where you are truly accepted by the community and you get to see the many religious festivals that happen throughout the year. To be able to see animals that are on the verge of extinction and to be a part of a programme that could help turn that around is amazing.

What surprises you about India?
India surprises me on a daily basis from the lush green environment to the beautiful saris the ladies wear to the hustle and bustle of daily life. But what has surprised me the most is the people; their openess to share, their happiness and ability to help you in any way they can.

What's the best part of your role?
Helping the Project Managers with every aspect of their project from sourcing nails down to a pair of wellies and condensed milk. In addition, being able to go out on the loop vehicles and see firsthand the progress in the community and environmental projects from start to finish.

We'll be putting on some field base staff info from time to time and if you know anyone who might be interested in one of the voluntary staff positions in India, see the main Raleigh website.

Myself and Andrea have an early start tomorrow to visit Charlie 1 and the two Echo groups, and Moycey and Claire are currently with Tango 6, so when we all return we'll be adding much more to the blog. In the meantime, a few messages from venturers have found their way back to FB, stand by for more when the loop vehicles return!

To Mothership

Got your letter today! Thank you I LOVED IT! My letter to you was sent three days ago so they overlapped but will reply properly to you letter soon! Loads of love, Vole xxx

From Chris Braggs:
To Libby
I’ve written a letter – hopefully you’ll get it soon. RWARRR!
To Juliette
Hi, I’m writing a letter, hopefully speak soon. X
Mille mercies pour tous gentils meg Maman, Papa & Alix! Et Livia quelle suprise J trop sympa
PS ils ne publient pas les msg “rude,” ils en out censue un qui m’etait dedie! (vi, Matth?) Kisses to all x Claire

Digging Deep and Aiming High

2009-10-23T16:21:00.002+05:30

Hello, it’s Moycey here again. I have just come back from an amazing five-day loop vehicle trip to visit three of the project groups and as promised here are some of the many highlights.

Charlie 1 - 'Magical Multilmoola'

My first stop was Charlie 1 in Multilmoola where they are making fantastic progress on the school building. I had a great time helping out for the day and working with the group alongside the villagers to shift concrete bricks and sand down a steep hill into the village. I was blown away by the strength of the women in the village who carry huge rocks on their heads without even breaking into a sweat; I was struggling with a bandolee (shallow Indian bucket) of sand!
Sam and India have done an amazing job of painting the toilet and the children in the village are loving playing cricket, and even henna drawing, with the boys! One of my high-lights was seeing the young boys in the village applying Laura’s bright pink nail varnish to their toes!

During the day the group are provided with fantastic chai and simple but delicious meals complete with poppadums and chutney. It’s safe to say I was sad to leave but will be looking forward to returning later in the expedition to see what it such a worthwhile project in a truly wonderful community.

Charlie 1 next to the foundations of the school

Echo 5 - 'Abseiling caterpillars and a lizard in the long-drop!'

Echo 5 meet an elephant calf

After leaving Multimoola, I joined Echo 5 on the second day of their outing to an elephant sanctuary and returned to Bandipur National Park with them to spend a night in their bamboo basher camp. Despite the small area in which they are living they have done an amazing job of turning it into a liveable space and make ongoing improvements and renovations to their communal areas with hand painted signs, bamboo benches and toilet seat transformations!

Matt and Louis working in the EPT

The forest where they are based is more beautiful than I imagined it would be and it felt such a privilege to be allowed to work and stay there. Although we didn’t see any elephants while I was there we heard them during the night so it’s a good job the group are working hard digging out the Elephant Proof Trench around the camp! They have already cleared and deepened one side to the front of the ranger’s building and have also started digging foundations for the toilet block at the rear.

Left to Right: Andrea, Georgie Page, Kate, Christina and Morten

I absolutely loved this project; the group are working so well together in what many people would find a difficult and challenging environment but they make it look easy. No one was phased by drinking lake water or having to dodge the poisonous caterpillars that abseil down from the trees. I on the other hand am hoping the lizard in the long drop has found a new home by the time I return!

Echo 4 - 'Snakes and Bamboo Ladders'
My last night in the forest was spent with Echo 4 who are renovating the 100 year-old guest house so it can be used as a Ranger's Station.

Myself, Claire and Andrea, who came to join me from fieldbase, were greeted in amazing style by the group whose faultless hospitality extended to collecting us water from the nearby pump so we could ‘shower’ whilst watching the sunset behind the trees (a personal high-light for me!). That night we had games of mafia and beautiful music provided by Luke and Amy.

The next day saw massive progress with the careful removal of all the original tiles from the roof of the house by a chain of steady hands. The original plaster had already been stripped away prior to us arriving.
Meanwhile another group were deepening the Elephant Proof Trench around the camp (Below left: Tor, Amy and Jamie).

Although the elephants didn’t put in an appearance we did see some beautiful deer and a troop of monkeys swinging by high up in the trees. Despite the hot and sticky conditions and the ever present danger of snakes and scorpions, Echo 4’s enthusiasm for their project doesn’t waiver and they are clearly enjoying and making the most of every day to each and everyone’s credit.

That’s all from me for a while so I’ll hand over to those doing all the hard work for their messages to you at home…….

Hey All, Just to let you know I’m alive and stuff, having a great time in a village at the moment building a school. It’s lovely. Never done so much exercise in my life! Max – am working on your list of goodies, it’s going well! No etcots though (!) just lots of cool people. Steels man, write me a message, I miss you! And Vicky hurry up and get here. Thanks for messages Mum & Dad. Boots are great. Love you, India xxx

Til Alle, Hej fra Morten her I Indien. Alt fantastisk og kan umuligt skrive alt her. Bor lige nu I midten af jungle I tre uger uden kontakt med omverden. Er faerdig circa 4 November, saa taenk paa mig den 30! Skal nok skrive mere til den tid, haaber alle hard et godt. Massere af kaeruge hilsner fra Bandipur National Park fra Morten. P.S. Der gaar vilde elefanter rundt bare 100m fra lejren! Kys og kram til Mor, Far, Anders, Martin og Niki, O.S.V.

Hi Mum, Dad, Tom and any other friends / relations reading this blog. I’m having a great time in an anti-poaching camp in the middle of the jungle, living in harmony with elephants and even tigers! Hope you’re all impressed. Lots of digging and carrying and have learnt some Kannada (the local language). Have a great half term and party; have written you a letter but it won’t be there for a while. Lots of love, Amy xxx

Hi Mum, Dad, Kate, Lindsey and Chris, Having a great time, very hot though! Living in Bandipur National Park, pretty amazing, elephants a plenty and potentially tigers. Drinking lake water, mmm! Have been into Mysore on rickshaws, swam in a reservoir and drank some insanely sweet coffee and chai. Hope you’re all doing great, loved the message Kate, keep ‘em coming – Faustus info! Lots of Love Matthew xxx

Hi Mum, Dad, Suzanne and David, Just a quick note to say I’m fine and currently based in Bandipur National Park at an anti-poaching camp which is literally in the middle of nowhere. Our group and the rangers are the only people allowed in the park so it is pretty humbling as you can imagine. I have seen and heard so many wild animals, particularly wild elephants which are really intriguing and slightly menacing especially when they stare straight at you! I have so many things to talk about so will attempt a letter (apparently it takes ten days to send a letter to the UK). Hope your all well and keep checking the blog for news! Lots of love John xxx!

Hello Mum, Dad, G, Gill, Alec and anyone else I know reading this blog! Having an amazing time, I’m loving living in the jungle (surprisingly!) Our group have bonded really quickly and everyone is getting on really well. G – I hope work is going alright and you have had some spare time for your bike! I’m missing you loads and looking forward to a letter? So get writing…. Frog – missing you Hope schools been alright, you will have to let me know how hail and Nathan are getting on? I am writing letters it just seems to be taking me ages since we have been so busy. Miss you all, lots of love Christina xxxxx

Dear M, D, C, A & J, I have just read all your blogs, it’s so nice to hear from all of you. Have already seen several elephants quite close but no tigers…. Yet! Really want to see one but not sure for how long! Our bashers are very comfy. Digging elephant trenches has been hot, sweaty and muddy work! For Divali we have gone away for the night and the food was amazing and the shower very much needed! Echo 5 is an awesome group, I get on so well with them. James – I hope 19th was ok wish I could have text. Say Happy Birthday to your mum for 20th. Hands off my wardrobe! Love you all loads, Georgie P xxxxxx

To Mum, Dad, Max and Polly, Missing you all loads and looking forward to hearing from you. Having a wicked time here and making the most of it all. Hope your individual ventures are going ok. Had a luxurious night with a roof and some great Diwali food, along with a real shower! I also love my basha in the jungle, surprisingly comfy. Hope my letters don’t take too long to reach you. Missing you all and lots of love, Louis xxx PS Happy Birthday dad! Hope it’s awesome and enjoy yourself lots.

Hi all, Hope you are all well. Having an amazing time out here in the depths of the forest. Seen elephants everyday. Our camp is getting really homely now, we’re working on a basketball net at the moment!! Missing you all, any football news?! Love Kate xxx

Hey Dan, we’re living in a funky jungle camp, sleeping in bashas and dodging elephants! There’s wildlife everywhere and we’re working really hard on the trenches. I’m so muddy! I miss you lots, can’t wait to see you again, Love Frankie xxx PS There’s a lizard in our longdrop!

To Webbie Parents and Sister, Having a wild time in the jungle digging trenches; we are almost elephant proof. It’s quite similar to living at home with all the trees except with dangerous animals. Not to worry though. Missing you all. Much love, Georgie W xxx

Hello Mothership, Sara, Dad, Hunter Townleys and Egg-Heads, I’m having an amazing time here – saw first elephant yesterday! Maybe it was Ellie in disguise!! Missing Sultana Bran for breakfast most out of everything, but having a shower and toilet in our camp that is open to the forest is unbeatable! Speak soon, Love Tor xxx J P.S. Wish Ferdy luck with the trials and Lauren with the operation. P.P.S. Everyone in Echo 4 thinks I eat a hell of a lot – I’ve become the camp dustbin – it must be the Jewish mother in you feeding me up!

To Mum (Juliette Prodger), Hiya, been getting all blog messages – so many LOL. Keep going – very uplifting when receiving them. India is good, doesn’t feel any different apart from no-one to turn to. Enjoying myself truly. Good experiences and I’m glad I managed to be able to be part of it. Run out of money as well LOL, Help! Don’t have to though. Missing everyone lots, can’t wait to get some of my groups pictures on blog. Lots of love Crimbo.

To Mam, Thank you for my birthday card and the messages/updates. I can’t describe what India is like in words, you’ll have to wait for the pictures. Hope you are ok and say hello back to the boys for me. Get them to write a message on here. Let Jamie and Co know about the blog, as I didn’t tell them. Looking forward and all to your letter J - Dad, glad to hear the operation went well and hope you’re back surfing soon. Hope you had a nice birthday and everyone is ok your end. -Thanks to both of you for the birthday messages – it was amazing. Love to you both, Luke x

Hey I’ve finally managed to get a message on the blog. I read your last message the 3 miles sounded very stressful particularly the chocolate cake at the end. I’m sure you managed to force it down. Hmm you should be more easy on Caleigh I’m sure she was being dragged by the end. I have now discovered that I sleepwalk and have started to play human buckaroo. It is so cool to be out here, I’m having the time of my life. I don’t need more shorts I can manage fine without them! Pass my love to Holly see if you can get her to post on the blog. Love Jammy Dodger x (I can convert trousers to shorts J )

Hi Hamiltons, India is amazing. I am writing this in a little book by the campfire in the forest – and the message is electrically sent to you – how clever! Hope you are all well, let me know the news from home (via blog) Lots of love, Amy xxx

Hey guys, This is gonna be my last message for a while... The PR team are here now so you’ll have lots of pictures soon! The work is going really quick... we’ve been told we might have to slow down!!! Gotta run – the ricebags are ready (our daily lunch...) Much love to you all, Mikey

Star trekkers

2009-10-21T12:17:00.000+05:30

I was lucky enough to join Tango 7 at the beginning of their trekking adventure. They were all in good spirits, albeit slightly uncertain as to how they were going to manage carrying all of their gear on flat bits, let alone up a mountain! After a long two-day journey down to Kerala, they were keen to stretch their legs and welcomed a short break at a waterfall. For those that dared to go under, it was the best power shower they'd had for a while, and for some time to come!

Top, the group stop at a waterfall and above, they find a strategically placed number 7 in the middle of a tea plantation

When we finally arrived at our starting point - right in the middle of a tea plantation - there was only a short trek (much to the surprise of the group) to the first campsite where we could set up camp, ponder the big day ahead and eat as much food as possible in order to bring the weight of the backpacks down!

The next day saw a crack of dawn start, and Tango 7 began to trek up India's second highest mountain outside the Himalayas (2,650m). It was a steady climb at first, watching the sun rise over some of India's most spectacular scenery.

Above, Adam and Pik are all smiles and right, Ben and Emma take a break to admire the view

The ascent was pretty tough with lots of climbs and drops before we even managed to catch glimpse of the summit. But then after a jump across a stream and yet another steep bit, we were able to have a quick water break before heading up to the top. Everyone was elated when they got there, immediately forgot the strain climbing up (for a bit anyway), and, as Pik put it so well, it was like swimming with the clouds.

Cloud starts to cover the group as they make their final push to the top

And they make it!

Dan

Lee

Holly

Beth

Tango 7 at the top!

After a steep descent, which proved to be more problematic than the ascent for most, a dense jungle trek and a few leeches, we were whisked off in jeeps to Anthony's Camp, a campsite with outstanding views. We even had a few fireworks and sparklers to celebrate Diwali.

From there we could see our destination, and washing opportunity, for the next day, the lake. The trek down to the lake the next day was short but hot, which meant we could work up a sweat before cooling off and trying to get clean. The afternoon was spent relaxing, catching up on journal writing and for some, spotting Loch Ness-style monsters in the lake! Our campsite had to be guarded in the night in case elephants (not monsters) got close, but although some of the group heard them in the trees, we didn't get to see them. However, after I said goodbye to them as they trekked off from Lakeside the next morning, Field Base did get reports of Tango 7 spotting elephants from a distance...

While the group chilled out at Lakeside they also got the chance to write some messages home:

Hi Granny & Granpa

I'm still alive! I sent you a letter but it's going to Cosgarne as I forgot your address. Trekking at the mo, got some pet leeches as well! Love you lots, hope you're well, my socks smell. Love Emma xxx

PS. Ask Mum and Dad to check if I left my hair straighteners on.

Hello again

Our trek has started, scenerys is beautiful but the mountains are better in the distance than up close! We mounted the second largest in India (outside the Himalayas) yesterday - few tears on the way up, but that's the name of the game. We're camping at a beautiful lake tonight and onto a few more thousand km tomorrow... It's so surreal but I do love it. Hope all's well at home, Hol xxx

PS. HAPPY BIRTHDAY NICCOLPOPS for the 27th, have a fantastic time pretty lady - loves you xxx

Hi Mum and Dad

Hope you're both well! Day 3 of the trek and all great so far - we were above the clouds yesterday on the peak of a mountain, and by a beatiful lake now! Have decided to get other people to carry my rucksack for me if I ever go trekking again! Haha. Seen leeches but no elephants yet, if only the leeches were elephants! Feel a world away from London, very odd! Lots of love, Helen xx

From Pik:

You, you and you!

Why you folks don't leave me any message?!

I am now working on my trekking phase and I have just climbed to the summit of the second highest mountain in southern India which is 2,650m high. The view up there is really amazing, I felt like swimming with the clouds. But it was really exhausting going up and down from the summit, and guess what? I still have 13 days to go! Yay! There is no computer access so I will try to catch up with you all in this blog. Miss you all, and hope everything is going well with everyone in Hong Kong.

Hi Mum, Dad, Chris

Having an amazing time out here. Am trekking at the moment and yesterday climbed to the summit of the second highest mountain in India. Views were brilliant and was strange being above the clouds. It was so tiring but a great feeling once at the top. Well done for finding the blog if you are reading this! And I will try and write soon. Keep me posted with Bristol City results and hope all is well at home. Not too good though, as you remember last time, "bluff"! Miss you, Daniel.

That's it from Tango 7 for now, we'll keep you informed of their progress as we hear back from them, and keep the messages coming in for them!

Looping with Charlie 1 in Multimoola

2009-10-18T13:33:00.008+05:30

Well the looping has begun, and yesterday some of the Fieldbase team loaded up their Bravo vehicle and headed out to the wonderful community of Multimoola, situated some three and half hours from Mysore. Our mission was not only to visit Charlie 1 but also to drop off Ali our roving reporter who will spend the next couple of days out and about.

As a newcomer to India the scenery continues to blow me away, and yesterday was no exception. The first part of our journey took us through the majestical Bandipur National Park, known for elephants and tigers, before we headed up to the mountains and into tea plantation territory. It was quite simply stunning and literally took my breath away. India never ceases to amaze me!

Charles leads the way in the digging stakes

When we got to Multimoola we were greeted by Charlie 1 who were hard at work digging in the toilets which will be attached to the houses Raleigh built over the Summer. Interestingly the girls, India, Laura, Nanette and Sam had finished their digging and had moved on to glamming up the existing toilet with paint they themselves purchased from a nearby village. The boys on the other hand, had called in PM Charlie to help them and were still hard at work (of course their hill was bigger, their ground harder etc etc!)

Everyone has settled in well, cleared out the creepy crawlies that inevitably inhabitat houses in small Indian communities, and set up a great campsite.

The local people are clearly delighted to have Charlie 1 to stay and are working incredibly hard right alongside them. Of course it is not all work, the cricket set is being put to good use, as is the nail polish brought by Laura and there is a constant background sound of laughing and giggling from the children as they get to know their foreign guests.

It was heartening to see just how much this group has accomplished in a very short time and how brilliantly they are doing as a group. You will have more updates from Charlie 1 in a couple of days when Ali gets back, until then keep the messages rolling in.

Anna

Country Expedition Manager

PS. As a late edition to this post, Charlie and David want to say a personal thank you to all the young people who are currently helping in Multimoola.

Lunch time - eaten on the veranda of the girl's house

Come on boys! Keep digging!

Charlie with the local Leader

Dave gets involved with henna - maybe stick to the building Dave!

Charles and Kit - hanging with the kids

09J have left the building!

2009-10-16T21:42:00.002+05:30

Alison our PRO Officer deployed yesterday to go trekking with Tango 7 for a few days so I‘m very excited as the other half of the Comms team to get to be guest blogger for the day!

After a long day and night spent counting, packing and repacking we finally waved off the Venturers at the crack of dawn yesterday.

James and Shamnad (Tango 6)

Charlie 1 leaving for Multimoola

Echo 4 and 5 both made it safely to Bandipur National Park and trekked in with their kit to their separate camps. Echo 5 had the added excitement of seeing elephants on their way to their project site. They have now set up all their bamboo bashers and have made it through their first night safely despite hearing some unidentified jungle noises. Echo 4 however woke up to the realisation that they had left their porridge supplies at fieldbase. That is of course unless the bears in the forest didn’t find it in the night!

Elsewhere, Charlie 1, who also saw elephants on their journey, reached Multilmoola to be greeted by the villagers who presented them with traditional jasmine garlands. Although shy at first the local children are now loving having new friends to play with.

Tango 6 and 7, who had the longest journeys down to Kerala, reached Thrissu and Udumalpetti respectively where they spent their last night for some time under a roof. Both groups reached the start of their adventure challenges earlier today. Tango 6 start in Nerimangalam with the challenge of building rafts that will carry them down the Periyar River, while Tango 7 will start at Silent Valley, bracing themselves for the second highest summit outside of the Himalayas.

Here at fieldbase we are somewhat lost without the rest of our family. It’s eerily quiet but we’re looking forward to speaking to the groups every day and finding out their news and progress. We’ll be passing on your messages to them as we receive them, and posting messages onto the blog from the groups. I can’t stress how much the messages and words of encouragement from home mean to everyone here so do please keep them coming.

Alison and I between us are lucky enough to be getting the opportunity to spend some time with all of the groups during this first phase to get photographs for the blog and the expedition magazine. We will post some of the shots at the first opportunity so that you can see the stunning environments and truly amazing places the groups are living and working in. We’re aware that not everyone has been in a photo on the blog yet but we’ll do our best to capture everyone as the expedition progresses so do please keep checking back.

Tomorrow I am going out to see Charlie 1 in Multilmoola to join in the local celebrations for Diwali, the festival of light, and then will be continuing on to see the Echo 4 and 5 in the forest and hopefully spend my first night in a basher! Alison will also be returning from trekking in Kerala so we will have lots to report on and show you next time.

Ali (aka Moycey)

And they're off!

2009-10-14T18:01:00.003+05:30

The trek training was a complete success! Jet lagged, the venturers set off in groups to complete a 20km trek in searing heat.

Hotel 4 are greeted by local children at the halfway point

But everybody made it and reached the site to set up camp, which was to be their base for the next two nights. The second day they completed their swim test and were given a snake safety talk and the chance to hold some of the less dangerous varieties!

Tor

On returning to fieldbase the venturers were allocated their project groups for phase 1 and are ready to set off tomorrow. As you can see from the pictures, the Project Managers each chose interesting ways of announcing the news...

Amy, Katie, Vijay

Davina and Leti

The groups are:
Charlie 1 - Building the school in Multilmoola
Charlie Elgy
Kit Hei
India Letcher
Laura White
Sam Flood
David Hildreth
Charles Lockhart
Nanette Vrinjenhoek
John Emmerson
Tony
Avaneesh
PMs: Charlie and David

Tango 7 - Trekking then rafting
Pik Yan
Lee Qua
Beth Grainger
Daniel Sellars
Ben Strachan
Holly Dunlop
Adam Russell
Emma Morgan
Vinay
Arvind
PMs: Helen, Jeff and Miriam

Tango 6 - Rafting then trekking
Chloe Stephenson
Colin Thorburn
Baz Murphy
Tina Boden
James Gurney
Philippa Crockett
Maddie Oakes
Alain Eisma
Jhon
Shamnad

Echo 4 - Ranger Station
Chris Braggs
Nicky Beveridge
Michael Stern
Bill Murgatroyd
Victoria Begg
James Eyles
Claire d'Ursel
Luke Argall
Rehman
Boops
PMs: Amy, Katie and Vijay

Echo 5 - Fire Lines and Anti-Poaching Camp
John Springate
Christina Ambrose
Matthew McDonnell
Georgie Webb
Morten Jacobsen
Georgie Page
Louis Nerurkar
Amy Whetstone
Shyam
Prajeesh
PMs: Frankie, Neil, Kate

And here's everyone together before they all set off in different directions...

Raleigh 09J

That's about it until the groups get settled and we have some stories from the project sites. But we do have some messages from venturers...

To Mum
Hiya. Having a good time. Going to write a letter hopefully when can get time. My first project is refurb on a rangers' anti poaching camp. Say to Libby I really miss her and RWARRR. Been thinking about her loads.
From Chris Braggs

Hi to Everyone
Just been assigned my first project and it's the one I wanted. My back is annoying me but the medics have been really helpful. Gotta run for group games, I leave tomorrow but just wanted to check in and send you all lots of love!
To Tai - It's bugging me that I can't speak to you now, will try and get a sim card asap.
Much love, Mikey

From Holly D:
Hi Mum, Dad and everyone - Greetings from India!
Had a good journey here, the place is amazing and the people are great. There's been lots of sun, thunderstorms, training trekking, sweating, laughing, spicy food, tuk tuks and even shopping!
Hope everything's fine at home, missing you lots but it really is awesome. Start my first project tomorrow - the 200km trek and rafting. Keep checking for my progress but it's all smiles for now! Lots of love and kisses, Hol xxx

Hi Mum, Dad, Charlie, Abbie and James
Been into Mysore today on the tuk tuks which was so much fun. I wasn't a very good back seat driver, they go quite fast!
I leave for my environmental phase tomorrow which I'm quite excited about, sleeping in bashas!
Hope you're all well, I really miss you all.
Lots of love, Georgie P (now known as Page as I have another Georgie in my group who is called Webb!) xxx

They're here!

2009-10-10T20:09:00.002+05:30

Kit, Pik and Michael are the first to arrive at Bangalore airport

So we're finally complete! The host country venturers arrived at field base yesterday and early this morning the rest of the travel weary venturers arrived at Bangalore Airport to be greeted by over-enthusiastic staff and then the even more enthusiastic PMs when they arrived at their new home.

The venturers (minus the ones who were spark out on the bus)

Some of the host country venturers gather to welcome the international group

Everyone made it safe and sound and after getting a quick tour they quickly had to prepare for the next two days of trek training. But not without a couple of rounds of Robot Wars and getting to know all the staff.

Robot Wars!

We've also finally been able to get the group of staff together and in one place for a group shot with a lovely holy tree.

The next blog update will come after the trek training when the venturers have been put through their paces, quite literally. There should be plenty of stories, but in the meantime we have our first message home from a venturer...

Hi Mum, Dad and Soph,
Arrived safely in the blistering heat! The field base is a wonderful place, really pretty and surrounded by palm trees. We are going on a practice trek tomorrow morning for two days, camping overnight, so I'd better shower (of sorts)!
Really enjoying myself and kit all works fine. Love to you all, Charles.

Bring it on!

2009-10-07T12:43:00.001+05:30

The Project Managers have now returned to fieldbase with much excitement after carrying out their planning visits at their respective project sites. For venturers about to make their way out to India, there's no doubt that whatever project you are allocated, you are all guaranteed to have a fantastic time. And if you don't believe me, here’s what the PMs have to say about their experiences!

Charlie 1 – Charlie and David

Our trip to Multimoola was an emotional occasion. We arrived to a welcome ceremony from the villagers – garlands of flowers and traditional music, and then keys to houses built by the previous expedition (which Charlie was also involved with) were handed over to the new residents.

We saw the old school (a flimsy building with little protection and a mud floor) and realised what a difference a proper school building will make.

Also during the project, toilets will be built for each house and smokeless stoves will be installed, which will be much more healthy than the open fires used for cooking in houses. Finally they will be building some walls to protect part of the village from mudslides during the monsoon.

And for all the venturers about to leave the UK for Bangalore we would like to appeal to you to try to find space in your rucksack for a few crayons, colouring books, or even small toys for the children of Mutilmoola. Anything ‘UK-related’ particularly welcome!

Charlie also recorded a message to the previous expedition's Charlie 1 who built the village houses. Go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzxksA4kof8

Echo 4 – Katie, Amy, Vijay

We’re really excited about being on this project! Our aim is to renovate the Chowdhalli Ranger Station to aid the anti-poaching project in the forest. We’re going to be living in Bandipur National Park – a forest where very few people are allowed and only with permission from senior government figures. By living in the forest we will be very close to the animals we are working to protect eg elephants and tigers – we might even see them on our doorstep! Due to the remote location, the campsite will be entirely what we make of it. We’re only going to be limited by our imaginations and resourcefulness. We really can’t wait to ‘go wild’ there with the venturers.

Echo 5 - Frankie, Kate, Neil

The Echo 5 PMs have kept it short and sweet...Make your own survival camp in the remote Bandipur Tiger Reserve (www.projecttiger.nic.in/bandipur). Enjoy jungle living and hardcore conservation work with Echo 5’s finest PMs. As for wildlife, you name it, we’ve got it, sleep tight in your jungle basha.

Charlie 2&3 – Alison, Claire and Mili

Phase two and phase three will see the start of the two remaining community projects. We went off to the villages of Halsur and Hosaheggudilu to see firsthand what invaluable work Charlie 2 and 3 will be undertaking. “These projects will provide the means for more sustainable agriculture for two tribal communities. The venturers will work with the villagers digging trenches and building bunds. They will be directly involved in something hugely worthwhile that will boost the farmers’ future income and make a real difference to the area. Venturers will be living in the local schools in the heart of the communities and will be able to help the children learn English, something they are extremely keen to do, there’s lots of scope for games!”

Tango 6&7 – Jeff (green Raleigh T-shirt), Lewis, Leti, Davina (aka Dave), Miriam, Helen

We are all extremely excited to spend the first phase in the rainforest in Kerala. We’ll be trekking in the Western Ghats and building our own rafts to travel down the Periyar River. Every night we will set up camp in a different beautiful and remote wilderness location. We will pass through tea plantations, climb the second highest peak in India outside of the Himalayas and see wildlife in its natural environment. We will enjoy exposure to unique habitats and large tracts of remote protected national parks and the reserved forests of Southern India. We will be pushing ourselves to the limit while having a lot of fun along the way and together everyone will complete this ultimate challenge.

Behind the scenes

None of these project planning visits could have been possible if it wasn’t for Raleigh India's Operations Manager of nearly two years, Amanda working hard behind the scenes to make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible. Thanks Amanda!

Here in Mysore we have had cause for more celebrations with the announcement that Anna Tate has been appointed as the new Country Programme Manager for India. Lots of Raleigh participants and staff will know Anna who has worked on no less than five previous expeditions in India and Costa Rica and I’m sure will want to join us in congratulating her on this new role. 09J are extremely lucky to be the first expedition to benefit from her wealth of experience and her incredible catalogue of tried and tested recipes including her now infamous “energy bombs”.

And the project goes to...

2009-10-02T07:31:00.002+05:30

The projects have now been finalised and allocated to the project managers. All the staff are now heading out to plan the projects which are... drum roll...

Charlie 1- Multimoola community project

This project will construct a 765 sq ft primary school which will serve the children of Muttilmoola village families, alongside a wider education development plan which includes the training and education of teachers and educational materials for the school and scholarships for the students. In addition a number of additional infrastructure facilities will be constructed for the tribal village people.

Charlie 2 – Halsur and Charlie 3 – Hosaheggudilu community projects

These projects are part of a six-year intervention, which started in June 2009, to develop an innovative and replicable model for improving the livelihood opportunities of vulnerable scheduled tribal communities in nine villages in HD Kote Taluk, Mysore District, through sustainable and equitable use of resources. Families from nine communities will benefit from the project and each family will be assisted to develop one acre of horticulture plantation. Raleigh volunteers will provide support to establish the horticultural infrastructure by planting cash crops of mango and amla fruit, creating contour bunding to retain monsoon rains; creating agricultural water storage tanks and constructing vermi-composting units.

Echo 4 – Ranger station environmental project

Raleigh, in partnership with Karnataka Forest Department, will refurbish a 100 year-old guest house deep inside Bandipur National Park. The guest house was constructed in 1908 by the Maharaja and has laid empty, falling into disrepair. The group will completely renovate the guest house adding sanitation and water services in order for it to be utilised by the Forestry Department as a permanently manned ranger station serving the Chowdhalli Range – an important habitat for tigers, elephant and many other key species.

Echo 5 – APC and fire lines environmental project

The group will construct additional facilities and provide clearance of nearby fire lines at an anti-poaching camp in Bandipur National Park. Bandipur is designated by the Government of India as a tiger sanctuary. The project will enable the Karnataka Forest Department to better protect the wildlife and ecosystems of the National Park from the threat of fire destroying the natural habitats.

Tango 6 & 7 - Adventure

The group will conduct an 18-day adventure phase in Kerala, guided by Kalypso Adventures, Raleigh’s adventure partner. The first stage will incorporate 14 days of arduous trekking at altitudes of up to 2,500m. The route will begin in Kerala, just inside the border with Karnataka at Marayoor in the Erivikulam National Park. The trekkers will head up into the Western Ghats and on day 16 will reach the Periyar River where they will construct two eight-man bamboo rafts and paddle west downstream for two days.

The staff going on phase one of each project will be: Charlie and David on the Multimoola project; Davina, Lewis, Leti, Miriam, Helen and Jeff all take on the treks between them; Vijay, Amy and Katie head off to the ranger station; Frankie, Neil and Kate are to tackle the fire breaks and Mili is to be the first fieldbased medic. Everyone is very happy with their allocations and just for good measure, here's some silly celebrations...

Frankie

Davina

Lewis

Charlie

A cultural and sweaty start

2009-09-30T18:37:00.000+05:30

Project Manager David and Medic Amy are greeted by Country Director Mark

The rest of the staff members have now arrived and it's been all go ever since. After the advanced and permanent staff excitedly pounced on the tired travellers as they got off the bus, they were shown around their new home (complete with welcome banner and flowers) and were plunged straight into training. There will be a group photo as soon as we can get everyone in the same place at the same time! But it wasn't all work work work as we also got to witness Puja, a Hindu ritual whereby all our work tools at fieldbase were blessed to keep them functional and safe. Our computers, phones and even the cars were decorated in a colourful ceremony that we were all lucky enough to witness and gave the new team members an extra special cultural start to their expedition.

Mark blesses the office and above, the cars and bikes all dressed up for the ritual

Mysore craziness

In another break from the intensive training we took a trip into central Mysore to try and catch the elephant parade as part of the Dasara festival. However, thousands of Indian tourists and locals had the same idea and we ended up in the middle of what can only be described as Mysore craziness. Some of the group did manage to jump above the heads of the ever increasing crowd and see part of the parade but unfortunately, most of us just saw the heads...

The hill

Trek training was also on our schedule this week. We split into two groups and trudged happily off from field base with all our equipment on our backs. Luckily the weather was perfect for trekking; cloudy, dry and breezy which we were grateful for as although we had many interesting sweat patches, we were all aware they could have been worse. We reached our campsite, on the other side of Chamundi Hill for lunchtime. Medical training and general camp craft were next on the agenda and after our superbly cooked evening meal of noodles, we sat around the campfire swapping trek stories and finished the day with a quiz. In the morning we still had to conquer the hill so with weary legs we decamped and set off up the steps for another few hours of trekking before returning to fieldbase.

Project Manager Neil shows the rest of the staff how to construct a basha

Messages

All of us here at Raleigh India would like to wish one of our medics, Mili, a very happy birthday! It's probably the sweatiest one yet!

During the expedition we will be publishing some comments from the staff and venturers to our loved ones back home and, Charlotte, our team coach, would like kick off by saying congratulations to Louise, Gareth and Leah on the announcement of Louise's pregnancy.

Welcome back!

2009-09-24T13:25:00.001+05:30

We have now welcomed two more staff members to the team. Neil (above), project manager, and Ali (right) who will be the photographer, are both staying on from previous expeditions after a quick jaunt to Sri Lanka to sort out their visas.

This week has been a mixture of comparing insect bites, working, finding our feet in Mysore and lots of fun with a trip to the circus (interesting and scary in equal parts), an Austrian cafe (delicious) and various games (Vijay will be getting all the new staff to play Jungle Speed at some point!).

Birthday celebrations

Also, in honour of Neil’s birthday, this morning we went next door to the Olive Garden restaurant to have a fancy breakfast and tonight we plan to throw some cheesy moves at a local nightclub after a meal out.

In feline news, the mother cat did keep returning to the logs room with her kittens but have once again been rehomed outside of field base.

The induction programme for the project managers has now been sorted and we’re all very excited about welcoming them. I’ll be updating the blog after they arrive and we can introduce the team fully. Not long now!

The beginning and lots and lots of curry

2009-09-20T14:13:00.033+05:30

The advanced staff team have made it to field base and have made ourselves at home. After an exciting drive to Mysore - passing cows in shops and various large packages on motorbikes - we arrived at field base rather jet lagged but intrigued to know what our roles would be like. We were helped through our day by curry for breakfast, curry for lunch and curry for dinner, and venturers and the remaining staff members (not to mention parents) will probably be reassured to know that field base (above) is feeling very much like a home from home already.

The team so far...

It’s already clear we’re well suited to our roles. Finance officer Claire is tackling spreadsheets “In my life, if it’s not on a spreadsheet it doesn’t get done”, medic Frankie “ooooh this anti-biotic is magic!” is sorting through the medical kits and logistics managers Andrea “I can not work in a messy area” and Mike (aka Mutley due to his laugh) are going through the kit and food in the logistics room but also rehoming a mother cat and her very new-born kittens who had nested in there. Whereas I (Alison) am telling everyone what we’re up to!

We’ve all settled in well, taking time to create a fitness regime into our busy schedules. After a quick explore around the base yesterday morning, Andrea and Frankie set up a circuit involving skipping, press-ups, sit-ups and lunges and then we had a yoga break a bit later. Then this morning we tackled the nearby Chamudi Hill and its 1,000 steps...

There’s currently a festival on in Mysore called Dasara which celebrates Hindu goddess Durga slaying a demon and therefore the triumph of good over evil. The events include elephants being dressed up, painted and paraded throughout the city (according to 60/60, one of Raleigh’s drivers, the elephants love having their make-up done!), and there’s various yoga, drama and music events. The elephants are due to parade on the 28th so the next lot of staff members can see them too. The city is heaving with locals and tourists who have flocked to the area so going into Mysore could be a bit of a baptism of fire...

Above, from top, Claire, Frankie, Mutley and Andrea, and Alison

Getting to work

In the meantime, we’re busy preparing for the next lot of staff members, who are due to arrive on Saturday 26th, and then the venturers, who arrive a couple of weeks later. There’s lots to do!

Do feel free to comment on this blog as we’re going along. Once the projects are underway, if the person you’re trying to contact is out on one of the sites, the messages will still get passed on and will be most welcome. And if there’s anything in particular you would like to know about the projects and how they’re getting on, do ask, I shall try and keep you updated as much as I can. Welcome to the beginning of our Raleigh adventures and stay tuned for the next blog in the next few days.

And now it's the end...or just the begining

2009-08-26T14:46:00.003+05:30

09I has come to an end.

A few tears were shed and sad farewells were bid. The expedition came to an end in Kerala up in the clouds.

All our venturers reined victorious after completing the grueling adventure challenge. Echo 5 deserve a special mention: Gareth, Miriam, Remya, Atul, Gloria, Will, Kris, Akim, Richard, Russell, Chinedu, Tarlan, Rebecca, Laura, Ciara and Birute were the winning team for the adventure challenge managing to keep their eggs intact for the entire journey, complete the fastest time in many of the tasks and win the poetry competition.

Above: Echo 5 celebrate!

Below is the beautiful winning poem by Ciara Hennessy:

Ramaranai Village
We left a piece of our heart in Ramaranai village
Remember the daily trek to the top of the hill
All day spent working with no time to kill
Remember the villagers as they worked without rest
The trumpet of the elephants deep in the forest
Remember the children as a family we would play
Watching the beautiful sunset after a tiring day
Remember the joy on their faces as we gave them water as a gift
The splash as the children played made our hearts lift
Remember the tears on their faces and ours when we had to go
Such beauty we’ll always know
We left a piece of our hearts in Ramaranai village

The last night in Kerala saw a huge celebration of friendship, achievement and endurance. We ended the expedition with a skit (like a short play) from each Charlie and Echo group. Charlie 1 put on an outstanding performance for their skit, the talent in Charlie 1 is phenomenal. Everyone was in hoards of laughter when Charlie 1, the winners of the skit competition, performed.

Only having one last night all together was tough for goodbyes, the night was long and sprinkled with tears and celebrations. Now the staff team have made it back to Mysore and the venturers have all gone their separate ways, some back home (or on their way!) and some to continue their onward adventures. All of the venturers on 09I made a huge impact, on the villagers they became friends with and gave wonderful gifts to, to the entire staff team, and most of all to each other, building friendships that will last a lifetime. The work that 09I have completed on all the projects will, without a doubt, impact the lives of many people.

A huge WELL DONE to all the venturers in 09I, may you wear your t shirts with pride and always remember this experience, all the staff and villagers are certain to remember you. Thank you for making the expedition such a success. Don’t forget to join Raleigh Alumni to keep in touch with everyone and definatly come along to the reunion!

Thanks also to everyone who followed and posted comments on the blog, I hope you have enjoyed it!

Lastly thank you and well done to a fantastic staff team both permanent and volunteer: Nicky, Kath, Miriam, Cat, Sarah, Anne, Ali, Margaret, Joss, Katharine, Leti, Lewis, Camilla, Charlie, Ruks, Eddie, M-J, Kate, Miriam, Gareth, Lotte, Rich, Neil, Mark, Amanda, Deepak, Vijay, 60/60, Manju and Girsh...what a team!

Final messges home from 09I

2009-08-24T22:10:00.002+05:30

It's our last day in of the Adventure Challenge in Kerala and we have some final messages home from 09I venturers:

Message from Emma Ballantine:
Hey guys, thanks for all your messages. Oh my god, i miss you all so much! Have sent letters so hopefully you’ve got them. Your letters have made me really happy!!! The adventure phase was brill, but the hardest physical thing i’ve ever done – it was ridic! I can’t believe i actually completed it. I have SO much to tell you!!! Will get my phone back soon and will find an internet cafe so will be in touch properly. Hope everything is really good with you all at home. Think about you every day. Gma and gpa thanks for your letter – loved hearing all the news. Mum and Dad, thanks so much for yours and Borneo sounds amazing penguin. And boys, thanks for your blogs – looking forward to entourage bro. Hope the flyings good jim. Shaniequays – love you all loads, cant wait to hear the chat. Ol, i get back on the 10th, so will be coming to plaaayyyyyy! Amy, don’t worry, im not out in the outback girl yet. Love you all sooooooo much. Lets go get a pizza mate when i’m back because I neeeed one, and some skittles and bevvvv mate. TYSON. Love love LOVE. Flyman stoke. His name was ming. Noooo definitely. Absolutely. 100%. Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Message from Dominique Wood-Whyte
Yo yo cuzzie and frendzz, thank u for showing me love on the blog... well appreciated, still i learnt alot frm this india trip and i’ve kept my positive sprit highly high LMAO!!! Still the advanture challegein that was done was hard hard hard but as the ppl in my group and myself say “GO HARD OR GO HOME” if u no wot i mean like were climbing up high steep mountines lol lol still wen i get back i will shout u all and cuzzie i will cum dwn Southampton sooner dan u tink nuff love daya pon a gully side MWAHH.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ; )

Message to Terry Princes family
Hope ur kl family don’t think that i didn’t reply to ur blog messages the message book got lost and now ive had the first chance to holla at you. I miss you like mad and i have been doing some thinking and come to a lot of decisions which i would be privileged to talk to you about when i get back any way i luv all of ya and will see you soon xxxx

Message to Terry Princes fiancée Natasha Steward
Wag 1 baby gurl i dnt no if you got my last blog message but i did send u a letter ive got 2 of ur letters thank u sooooooo much it was so gd 2 hear u still feel der same 2. I dnt no what gate im going 2 b at so ur gunna have 2 check der arrivel board i cnt wait 2 c ur face again i luv u baby gurl and ile speak 2 u at der airport xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Message from Sarah Eastaff
Hey guys, its a bit late for a message now but just wanted to let you all know that everything is awesome out here. Just finished the adventure phase and it was so hard! But just incredible i have so much to tell you all and am craving some cheddar/brownies/cheese on toast/ CHICKEN CATSU CURRY!!! Help me out, yeah? Hope Venice was rad and Hannah made good use of that cocktail offer! Everyone’s letters have helped so much, thanks guys, its been such a weird moment of an old reality. I am coming back in my Indian outfit so watch out ;). Eeek you know my results! Ed, hope everything is good with that and Laura doesn’t hate you for the fish incident! I laughed so hard about that. Love to all can not WAIT to see you all :D XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Message from Kath Paton
Hi Mum and Dad – my phone has died and my debit card has been blocked (not impressed!!) so can you let me know if you can’t meet me at the airport? J Hope all is good back in Carlisle – looking forward to seeing you soon! And to that pizza when I get home!! Also, if anyone at St John’s in the Vale is reading I miss you guys so much!!! Hope you are all having an amazing time – really gutted I couldn’t be there – hope you are listening to Torn lots for me J Having an absolutely brilliant time out here but looking forward to seeing everybody again! See you all scarily soon – don’t know where time has gone!!! Xxxx

Message from Venuse Ardalan
Hello dad and sin,
I thought maybe i should send a message to you even though ill be Back in London in THREEEEEE days :D!! Ill miss the whole experience i’ve had here but i’m exited to see you all after 5 whole weeks! I hope you’ve all been well !By the way, I should be arriving at Heathrow around 12.30 or 12.45 on thursday but don’t worry if my phone is off at that time because my phone battery might be low. Anyway you better still be ready to take me somewhere nice to eat! haha :D. See you all in a few days!! Take care, love you all, venuse xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Message from Jaime Orrego
Hola/hello mi ermosa mama, mi papa, y todos and all my friends,
Just want to say that i am missing all of u’s, will be cuming back on fiday so make sure u holla at me on Friday afternoon, im really sad im leaving india because im going to miss everyone especially all my Indian hommies and the whole india vibe. India has been a big and spectacular experience for and will be comng back like a new jay so watch out lol. Anyways im gona leave you lot hope u lot got sumthing for me to come back to and love u all lots....thank u family for the messages, frizzy ma cuzzy for life miss u lots ma dawggg and tanisha thnx for ur lil blog means alot u lil rat muaaaa everyone and hear from u lot on Friday when im back holaaaaaaa.

From Emily Hakin:
To Emma Wood I love you Ward
Hey babes, nearly home now, we are on our last night, rave time wooooop. Sexy time when im back, which is the 27th... I need to go back to Plymouth for a week, then up to London on the following weekend for a party in Clapham, you wana come? Cant wait to come and get a flat sorted and move back up! Have sooooo much to tell you when I get back. Literally me and Rose had the old i pod shuffle on today, annnnnd taman needs a visit. Haha and your letters were amazing mate! I cant wait to come back to the boy lol, what a dish .... so I need to go and get stuff sorted! Love you shlaaaaag love ems xxxx

To Granny and Grandad
Hi guys, hope you are ok, shame about the peppers, but good about the apples! I wasn’t allowed to do the trek in the end as I was pretty poorly, but did the 77km on the cycle, which I will try and describe to you and how amazing it was over a steak maybe??? I wish I could have been at Georges Bday.sounds amazing! Ohhh and I received both letters! Thank you! But I didn’t get the one from mother... hmmmm.... Il try and get them sent to me... See you soon and love to you both ems xxxx

To my mama, Andrew and George (if he has surfaced from his room after his birthday??)
Hi folks, So I am PRETTY GUTTED about missing Georges Birthday mash up haha, oh well, I will be out as im home! I have had the most amazing time you could try and imagine, will tell all when im home. Just getting ready for the last night now, Party!!!! And then home to sort my life out uh oh! I didn’t get your letter, which I hope I can get sent back to me?? Glad you people are all good, and see you soon, mama il ring you when im back in London, love you alot and see you soon woooo hooooo xxxxxxxxxxxxx ems xxxxxx

From Beccy Culverwell
To the Culverwells
Hi everyone just to let you know i have survived the adventure stage. Was so much fun but very hard work. As is typical of me i tripped on a rock and hurt my wrist so had to go and have an x ray and could nt do the cycling and one day of trekking which was a shame but I am fine now though. Leaving tomorrow morning to start travelling, we are being left in kerala rather than going to Bangalore, then will be staying in a hotel for a couple of nights and renting a houseboat etc. In the second week will try to go to delhi and possibly Mombai. Last night tonight which will be sad but cant wait to travel. Have u sorted out tom and Exeter?? How was jenny leaving today?? Please reply to my hotmail as i wont use the blog again. Hope ur all well cant wait to see you in two weeks. Lots of love Beccy xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

From Kezi Evans
Hellooo! Hoping you are all well.. have just about survived the adventure challenge week... Had to miss out on most of the cycling as I was ill which was really annoying but I did at least manage 27/72 km of it... We had a two day trek which was challenging but so much fun . and we also did some watersports as well! (had to miss day 1 as well because I was ill as well so no kayaking for me but did get to do bamboo rafting). We are all leaving fieldbase tomorrow morning – me and the others i’m travelling with are being dropped in Munnar and then we are going to Cochin first. I will probably call home then as I have no battery on my phone and no way of charging it! Can’t wait to see you all in 10 days! Lots of love and hugs xxx (p.s. Ed – got the second letter – wow you went all ali in that! Hehe liked it though !xxxx )