MORE MOUNTAIN NAVIGATION - CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) FOR WALES AIR AMBULANCE

April 20th: An enjoyable day on Rhos Dringarth with two participants keen to improve their navigation skills with donations to the Wales Air Ambulance Charity.

The route was from the Crescent lay-by just north of the Storey Arms OEC and was about 9km in total from 0900 to 1500 with clear skies but a very cold and challenging wind from the east. We followed the Beacons Way on the escarpment path, ticking of navigational features along the way before reaching the summit of Craig Cerrig-Gleisiad (629m).

From the cairn we headed westwards with Louise and Elizabeth taking it in turns to navigate and gain confidence with their practical skills. After crossing open ground and using aiming off techniques we reached the ford which crosses the Nany y Gwair and enjoyed lunch there.

Note: Corporate social responsibility is a business model by which companies make a concerted effort to operate in ways that enhance rather than degrade society and the environment.

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​After lunch we followed the path to the next water feature, the Nant Mawr. From the Nant Mawr, Elizabeth and Louise were tasked with finding the 600m contour line by using timing skills and applying compensation for the height to be gained. This is no easy task but they were close to the required 600m contour where we rested and discussed navigation processes. The next skill to be practiced was contouring along the 600m contour to locate an old sheepfold about 500m to the east and they found this easily.

The sheepfold is a favourite location for me and with this route is ideal for a rest and to review the days navigational pros and cons. Elizabeth and Louise then had to consider the route options for a safe return to our vehicles. Once there we debriefed before heading for home.

Feedback from Louise:

• An enjoyable day in the beautiful Brecon Beacons learning/revising navigation, map reading and hill skills.
• Alan is hugely knowledgeable and very patient!

​Feedback from Elizabeth: 

• A lovely day spent in the Bannau Brycheiniog, a first with its proper name.  
• A very blustery start where I thought I’d end up back in the lay-by without using my feet.  
• There was also a possibility of loosing the map or my glasses. A great way to start a navigation day on the mountains. 
• With the patience and wit of Alan, I learnt that I can hold a map upside down and know I’m going in the right direction. 
• Thanks Alan for a great day.