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One of the UK’s most exciting youth expeditions takes place each year on Dartmoor. The ‘Ten Tors Challenge’ involves 2,400 teenagers trekking up to 55 miles across Devon’s beautiful if rugged moors.
Organised by 43 (Wessex) Brigade, ‘Ten Tors’ has run well for over 40 years. It fields some 400 teams of six from schools, youth organisations and military cadets from UK and even overseas. The associated one-day Jubilee Challenge tests youngsters with physical and learning difficulties. This exacting weekend gives the teenagers a chance to pit themselves against Dartmoor’s climate and terrain.
On the starting gun, usually fired by the General Officer Commanding 5th Division, teams set off from Okehampton Camp for the two day trek. They hike their way to the finish line, and to their prized awards, via ten of the ‘tors’ or rocky crags.
Teams are briefed to respect Dartmoor’s unique environment. Bird nesting areas, for example, are firmly ‘off limits’. The TA always give added help, and volunteers from Exeter University Officer Training Corps regularly assist with the Jubilee Challenge. Team work and enthusiasm are essential for both participants and organisers, and ‘Ten Tors’ could not work without the support of the ‘army’ of helpers from all three Services and numerous civilian organisations. |
