by Rosy Graham
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| My allotted welcome to the enthusiastic 8 and 9 year olds from Amble First School, was to harness them to a wire and encourage them to zip across the wooded ravine situated next to Ford Castle. Fortunately for me, the group was very much up to the challenge.It was a good job there was an anchor rope at the landing site; it was a tad slippery due to recent heavy snowfall. The group loved it of course; they are safely attached to the anchor rope, positively gliding to the Finish area, whilst I found myself repeatedly face down in the mud until I resembled some sort of mud monster, much to the amusement of all onlookers. |
 Ambling by the Lady Waterford Hall |
| The next day we took a walk – well (naturally) more of an amble really – to Ford Moss, which afforded stunning views of the snow-dusted Cheviot Hills on the way, though I fear my photographic skills have not done them justice. |
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| Once at the Moss there was much to see, from ice patterns in puddles to the mine shaft entrance. For some reason though, the young group were far more interested in some fox poo and then some rabbit fur close by (no prizes for guessing the connection there). |
 Ice (rather than mud) puddle |
| Back at the Castle and time to relax. What am I saying, that’s no way to keep year 5 children entertained. A much better idea was Nightline (especially as the teachers could participate too: dropping leaves and twigs on their young charges – no encouragement from me, of course), followed by Archery and the Castle Tour.It was the turn of we instructors to be entertained, after a delicious and filling dinner, at the Talent Show, followed by a disco where everyone let their hair down.The final morning dawned, but there was still time for some Crate Stacking, Potions and Initiative Exercises, which the Amble pupils attacked with skill, humour and aplomb.
Waving off Amble School, I considered two things: what great fun the children from Amble are; and, if I don’t stop waving soon, my arm’s going to fall off. |
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