“A fantastic achievement.” That is how staff at the West of England School and College for young people with little or no sight summed up the efforts of students who took part in a Ten Tors challenge this weekend.
A group of 14 students, aged between 14 and 21, completed the Jubilee Challenge, a demanding one day event designed specifically for young people with special physical or educational needs.
For some it was their first experience of Ten Tors – for others it was their second or third Challenge.
Laura Sperring, Head of Fundraising and Public Relations at the School and College, who went with the students, said today: “It really was a fantastic achievement.
“The weather was kind to us but it was very cold camping on Friday night. All our students completed the challenge and worked really well together as a team – helping one another all the time. They are exhausted but thrilled to have completed such a gruelling challenge. We would like to thank our sponsors, Hill-Rom, for making this event possible for us this year.”
One of the students who took part in the challenge, Andy Combstock, aged 15, from Teignmouth, said: “It was very tiring, especially the two big hills, Kitty Tor and Yes Tor! But is was fun though!”
Another, Niall Williamson, aged 16, from Reading, added: “It was my third and last time this year with the School and College, but I enjoyed it so much that I’d love to do the 35 miler next year!”
Di French, a Learning Support Worker who supported Dale Butterfield, 14, from Hereford, said “Dale walked all the way, except for meal stops and looked like he thoroughly enjoyed the day. He was met at the finish line by his mum and dad who had travelled down to see him complete this exciting challenge and collect his medal.”
Young people taking part in the Jubilee Challenge covered four specific routes – one of which is 22 kilometres, virtually the same distance as the main Ten Tors course.