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Where in the world?
Foula
is the remotest inhabited British island and is situated
to the west of the Shetland Islands. It may be
small (5.5km x 4km) but it packs in two summits over
350 metres and two others not far behind, some freshwater
lochs and the whole wrapped up with cliffs reaching
up to 350 metres, the highest in the British Isles.
All can be enjoyed in the 24 hours of daylight and sunshine
to be had at this time of year.Foula
is a Grade I Site of Special Scientific Interest with
wildlife that includes half a million seabirds, plants
and animals, some unique to the island.
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The
Expedition
The
expedition starts with an overnight ferry trip from
Aberdeen to Lerwick where we may get time to explore
the quaint little narrow streets, then catch a bus over
to Walls to meet the Foula mailboat. The crossing takes
about three hours during which you may see porpoises,
dolphins, whales, and lots of seabirds, weather permitting.
We shall be staying at a bothy on the island although
we will spend at least one night camping at a spectacular
cliff top site from which it is possible to see Killer
Whales.There will be a variety of activities to do on
the island, including several walks around parts of
the island, birdwatching, surveying a derelict crofthouse
and the island’s wells, a boat trip round the
island, visiting the islanders and helping them out
if requested, entomological surveys and the possibility
of a day spent putting a new grass roof on an old lambhouse
using traditional methods.You cannot go to Foula without
hearing or playing some folk music and learning to dance
the Foula Reel so you can show off your prowess at the
Reunion.If there is a particular field of interest that
you would like to follow up while on the island then
do contact the leader team beforehand.
Up
for the Challenge?
There
is no transport on the island and we shall be walking
everywhere so a basic level of fitness is preferred.
The highest walks are 410 metres. The surrounding seas
are described by the islanders as "rumbly"
so come prepared. Previous fieldwork experience
is not necessary as basic instruction will be given
on expedition. We will be a small team and mucking in
at all levels will be essential.
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What can members expect to gain from this expedition?
As
part of a small team, members can develop organisation
and team skills, learn basic survey techniques and camping
skills. The scenery and wildlife are some of the best
in the British Isles and the expedition is suitable for
the Discovery level of the John Muir Award. They will
gain some insight into living in remote communities and
the hardships that may be involved. |
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Dates: |
7th to 18th July
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| Transport:
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Ferry
and minibus |
| Group
size: |
Up
to 12 |
| Leader: |
David
Scott-Lanley |
| Price:
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£450
Deposit £80 |
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Want
to Apply?
Applying is easy,
go to the APPLY
NOW section and fill in the application
and medical forms. Print them out, sign and post them
to Brathay Exploration Group, Brathay Hall, Ambleside,
Cumbria, LA22 0HP |
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Leader profile:
David
has been involved with Brathay since 1969 but apart from a Lakes
expedition, has been to Foula on nine expeditions as member
and leader. He is a keen amateur naturalist and entomologist
in particular and knows Foula inside out. He also plays the
fiddle and enjoys sessions with the islanders and members of
the expeditions.
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