Judging by membersÔÇÖ feedback, this was in no small part due to RupertÔÇÖs professional and engaging approach, however, I think it was probably more than that. There was something quite special about hearing about why things work, not just being shown that they do.

During the weekend, we learnt how to light a fire with friction, but then we learnt how and why it works, so the science behind it! We made cordage (string for us non-bushcraft people!) from nettle, bramble and other materials and then broke them! Great fun working out whose was strongest and what load it took to break. If only physics at school at been so much fun and such a laugh! Water filtering and the science behind it led to some very in-depth discussion, but it was the demonstration showing us live single-cell organisms, swimming around the water we had filtered, that caused the most gasps of wonder.

Of course, throwing things is always fun, especially for the younger members. So the demonstration of ancient throwing weapons for hunting from spears to boomerangs was enjoyed by us all, especially on the rare occasion any of us got anywhere near the target! Again, being taken into the reasons why it all works, how distance and accuracy can be improved, and the strange inventions people have made along the way, kept us all enthralled.

As well as the bushcraft science, if you want to call it that, we were treated to an example of just how great many of our Nearly Wild Camping location host members are. Tea and cake on arrival for many (packages of cake were even brought to those who arrived late!) were the start to a level of hospitality not achieved in many a five star hotel! Our farming hosts, who were in the middle of harvest, were always attentive and always willing to share their love, knowledge and passion for the countryside. Fantastic! I am pleased to say Caroline was also able to join us for many of the activities. In addition, we were treated to a rare insight into how the farm works during an afternoonÔÇÖs guided walk around the farm. A real insight into farming, wildlife and the pressures on farmers caused as a result of the modern markets and farming system. The strength of interest and the depth of the conversation were proven by the fact our walk ran well into the evening and was eventually only stopped by rumbling stomachs!

A fantastic couple of days at a wonderful location. Member feedback was excellent, and many tell me they will definitely be visiting that host again soon!