Fladbury to Pershore 6 miles Flatwater trip 13th September 2015
As a newcomer to the club I had no idea what to expect on my first club trip. The week before I was a little anxious about what I had let myself in for, especially about the weather! But on the day the sun shone brightly and all was good with the world……
I think the trip leader, Martin Stretton was expecting around 10 and 17 turned up on the day which was excellent, of all ages and abilities. I was pleased to see there were more new paddlers on the trip. The day started off unloading boats, sorting out equipment and transporting cars to the end point. We had an initial brief; and in the water we got, via a small launch eek! Once that was out the way my nerves began to float away….. Especially as Fraser was offering bon bons to all …it all seemed to help!
We all had a little warm up before making our way to the first weir. We were given the choice to portage and miss the weir out, but we all decided to go for it. It was my first ever weir on my first ever trip. There was no way I wasn’t going to do it. The weir was very wide and like a waterfall.
Being at the top was like…. amazing. I paused to enjoy the view and think wow this is what it is all about. Invigorating, feeling alive, being brave, and most of the others watched below wondering if I’d end in the river ha ha. It was like a going down a waterfall at a 45 degree angle and I loved it. I paddled like mad at the bottom – as per instructions and was chuffed I made it. When can we do that again! We spent time playing with the waves and enjoying the flow. Robert was able to demonstrate and teach various techniques in the fast flowing bottom of the weir. Ady was able to capture those moments on the Go – pro and his video compilation of the trip on you tube and/or facebook is a must to see for anyone considering this trip.
I was surprised by how many obstacles there were in the river. Neil was on lookout at the front reporting the odd fisherman and boats along the way. The views were beautiful of the still water in the sunshine, the huge cows, the massive group of geese, the swans, the very large houses and gardens which we wowed with envy. Then there was the pub…..we passed……we didn’t stop…….the fellow boater was sitting enjoying a pint while we paddled on with envy…..
However, Martin found a nice open spot for us to have our welcome lunch and poor Neil and Rowan had forgotten their lunch in the excitement. Well everyone was literally throwing food at them and suddenly the two loaves of bread fed the 5000. There was also a truly bonding experience with the ladies visiting the bathroom to powder our noses……..
As we got back into the water some did a seal launch with a 10 foot drop and even newbies Sara and Jack which we all clapped as we were so impressed.
Then we paddled past Wyre Piddle which was very pretty and I started to paddle more in a straight line. I was getting the hang of this malarkey and time spent in the water with experienced paddlers/coaches able to offer advice and support was invaluable. The more I concentrated the better I became. My two star course here I come.
We arrived at the second weir about 4.5 miles into the trip. As the leads assessed the safety it was quickly realised that due to overgrowth and additional large rocks the weir was not going to be suitable to go down. My first experience of portage then began. Another chance to talk and practice getting in and out of the boats, everyone was so friendly and always so much to talk about and learn. I now have a whole new vocabulary and know what a cag is amongst other things!
The third and final weir was 5.5 miles into the trip. We were surprised to see that there was a new hydrolic power station adjacent to the weir which meant that we were unable to go down it. However Neil was feeling brave and able to give us a demo and we all were very pleased he made it safely to the bottom and was impressed with his kayaking skills.
The very last bit we hit a bit of a jungle. It was narrow with lots of trees and obstacles and a winding route began. It felt exciting and different and we all enjoyed the challenge. Around the corner we were at Pershore, with a wonderful ancient bridge, and we arrived at our final destination. It was the end of an amazing day, full of adventures, new friendships and excitement at the trips to follow.
We even had a trip to the pub afterwards, for a debrief of course, and the drink was a welcome bonus . One thing is clear. This club is an amazing inclusive club with a high regard for safety and fun!
Looking forward to many more adventures…….
Theresa Bishop
I would like to acknowledge many thanks to the trip leader Martin Stretton (who also gave me a lift), with support on the trip from Neil Smith and John Spooner. Also special thanks to Mick Perry for transporting my borrowed club gear there and back.