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The Outdoors Station - Audio - ID : 327

The Cape Wrath Trail - Pt 2 Sun, 06 Jul 2008 14:06:47 GMT

After a bracing wash in the River Oykel we follow the river to Inchnadamph Bunk House. The following day we are once again stunned by the beauty of the area as we climb towards Glas Bheinn, through the gully and have to reflect on the unbelievable view.



The Cape Wrath Trail - Pt 1 Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:50:53 GMT

Join Lee Wells and myself as we start our 100 mile walk from Ullapool to Cape Wrath, in early May 08. This starts our journey off and we talk route, landscape, history, weather and of course .. gear!



The Podzine - Paramo Range 2008 Fri, 13 Jun 2008 08:31:46 GMT

Following a successful early May trip to Cape Wrath using a Paramo Velez Smock, I thought I would take a closer look at the range. Matt Semark from Paramo takes me through the current popular items in the range and explains some of the keys features.



Cicerone Press - The Outdoor Environment Fri, 23 May 2008 09:27:06 GMT

The landscape of our islands is constantly changing. We tend to think we notice changes?houses, roads, wind turbines, but some changes are more subtle, as the countryside and its use over centuries becomes modified and eased into a developing world. With his farming background, and more recent career as an outdoor writer, Mark Richards is uniquely placed to discuss how we can interpret these changes, and enjoy our countryside walks in an environmentally-conscious way.



Cicerone Press - Jordan Fri, 23 May 2008 09:08:29 GMT

Tony Howard and Di Taylor have been climbing and trekking in the mountains of North Africa and the Middle East for well over 30 years. In 1984 they discovered the climbing and trekking area of Wadi Rum, and wrote the guidebooks to that area. They return to Jordan every year and their discoveries reveal an unexpected land of forested hills, dales carpeted in flowers, huge canyons sometimes with fast-flowing rivers, caves, perfect limestone cliffs in wooded valleys and high mountains with lunar landscapes. This is the country of world famous sites of antiquity such as Petra, Pella, Ajlun and Kerak.



Cicerone Press - The John Muir Trail Fri, 23 May 2008 08:19:59 GMT

The John Muir Trail is a spectacular trek through California?s High Sierra from Yosemite (El Capitan and Half-Dome) to Mount Witney, highest peak in the continental US. The 216 mile route can be comfortably fitted into a three-week holiday, but planning and preparation is critical as Ronald Turnbull will tell you ? tune in to find out more, then get the Cicerone guidebook and off you go!



The Podzine 14/5/08 Wed, 14 May 2008 07:49:33 GMT

We finally find the winner of the fab Canon G9 Camera competition, meet the UK's only wooden kayak maker, talk to Mark Richards about his new book Mountain Walks in the Lakes and here about the Charity Community Action in Nepal.



The Podzine 28/4/08 Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:16:21 GMT

A great podzine for you this week with an extended deadline on the competition. We speak with Catherine Whitehead from Paramo who are committed to ethical production, also to Andy Rouse to hear about the lifestyle of a wildlife photographer and to John Penny from Canon Uk, who has given us a fantastic G9 as a prize for this week's show!!



Cicerone Press - Walking In Scotland Sun, 20 Apr 2008 18:53:59 GMT

Scotland and outdoor activities seem to have been made for each other. With so much choice, it?s sometimes hard to decide where to go for your walking adventure. Here we talk to Ronald Turnbull, whose extensive knowledge of the best walking regions in Scotland is brought together in (currently) two guidebooks to the ranges near Ben Nevis and Glencoe, and the Cairngorms in the East.



Cicerone Press - The Book Of The Bivvy Sun, 20 Apr 2008 18:52:05 GMT

Ronald Turnbull is an outdoor writer with a difference! His boundless knowledge, quirky writing style and boyish sense of fun in the outdoors are all brought together in ?The book of the Bivvy?. Here we hear from the man himself, with tips on bivvying in the rain, ideas for great trips, and the sheer pleasure of being on the hills for hours before (and after) the crowds have descended to the town below.



Cicerone Press - Life As A Writer Sun, 20 Apr 2008 18:51:19 GMT

Paddy is a prolific outdoor writer with over 30 books to his name. Brought up in the Pennines, Paddy?s love of walking quickly translated into a career as a writer. Here he describes how he actually goes about preparing information for one of his many guide books. He also explains how his life as an outdoor writer is highly organized so as to maximize opportunities throughout the year.



Cicerone Press - The Ribble Way Sun, 20 Apr 2008 18:50:39 GMT

Certainly a less well-known long-distance route, but one which captures everything that a good trail should have. The River Ribble springs from the limestone of the Yorkshire Dales, high on Cam Fell in the heart of Three Peak country. The 70-mile route is ideal for those new to trekking, with plentiful accommodation and sights of interest on the way.



Cicerone Press - Cycle Touring Sun, 20 Apr 2008 18:48:27 GMT

Cycle touring need not be the sole reserve of the fit, lean ?Tour de France? cyclist, or even the club cyclist. In this podcast we hear from Jon Sparks about how to get started, just what level of ability you really do need, and some of the delights of moving through the countryside at a pace which combines a reasonable rate of progress with time to enjoy your surroundings to the full.



The Gourmet Hedgerow Sun, 20 Apr 2008 18:38:00 GMT

It's Springtime, although it may not feel it, and many walkers are recognizing new growth in the hedgerow as the green shoots of new life poke through. We know there is much which can be harvested to add a zing to our plate, but which plant and what does it taste like? So Rose and I join Diana Bateman once again on a gourmet hedgerow walk, to find things which not only are edible, but taste great. Plus we have the satisfaction on knowing it saves us a small fortune in trendy restaurants!



The Podzine 21/4/08 Sun, 20 Apr 2008 18:31:09 GMT

In this weeks show we find out about the new 2008 Lowepro rucksacks designed specifically for hiking photographers, catch up with the facts about the ever increasing encroachment of the tick and hear about the Uk's first diploma in Adventure Sports. Plus we announce the winner of last weeks competition and set this weeks challenge.



Outdoors Show Special - Getting Out! Mon, 14 Apr 2008 11:49:58 GMT

Lets get out and about in this podcast recorded at this year's Outdoors Show at the NEC. For social inspiration and suggestions of groups to contact, why not try the Ramblers Association, who have members of all ages. Perhaps the John Muir Trust could do with your help? For younger female outdoor enthusiasts there always the Guiding Association. Show sponsors, Ordinance Survey explain their new free on-line portal and who can resist Ireland's North West cycle trail?



Outdoors Show Special - Gear! Mon, 14 Apr 2008 11:35:11 GMT

More from this year's Outdoors Show at the NEC and a podcast dedicated to the wonderful subject of gear! We hear what is coming soon from Alpkit, all about the Freeloader charger from Solar Technologies, have a clothing update from Montane, catch up with Sam from Shewee, understand more about Pacer Poles and speak to a man standing in a bucket of water! Diverse or what?



The Podzine 14/4/08 Sun, 13 Apr 2008 17:20:56 GMT

In this environmentally friendly Podzine we chat with the original hippy celebrity cafe owner Pete Norton in Snowdon, catch up with John Hee one of the main organisers behind the Wild Camping campaign and discuss the recycling ethics within the tent industry with Andy Ayers from Green Outdoor. Plus announce the winner of last weeks camera competition and set this week's challenge.



Aquagear Survivor - Pure Water Anywhere Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:46:23 GMT

We are happy to be supporting this new water filtration and purification bottle from Drinksafe Systems. The Aquagear Survivor is the lightest proven system in the world. Following extensive tests with incredible results, this affordable, light, flexible bottle will solve all the dilemmas you've ever had, when wondering if your available drinking water is safe. Perfect for the hiker, cyclist, kayaker, bushcrafter, traveler and business person.



The Podzine 7/4/08 Sun, 06 Apr 2008 15:21:26 GMT

In this weeks Podzine, we hear about some great new cameras by Olympus especially made for the outdoors person, talk with a 'get away from it all' bed and breakfast in British Columbia run by a British couple and discuss rights of way and access issues with the British House Society. Plus of course our diary section and a fantastic new competition.



Podzine - A weekend with Nomad-Bushcraft Sat, 05 Apr 2008 14:49:48 GMT

If you've always been enthralled by the Ray Mears TV series, then you might have wondered what it would be like to go on a bushcraft weekend as a novice. Join us then on this podcast, as I share a weekend induction course deep in the woods, in the heart of Wiltshire.



Outdoors Show Special - Destinations! Mon, 31 Mar 2008 06:09:59 GMT

Seeking inspiration where to go hiking this year within the UK and Ireland? Then have a listen to this, as Andy Howell chats to four specific destinations who try to pursued him (and us) to sample their features. An interesting podcast full of ideas and enthusiasm of those who are proud of, and love their part of the world. Andy does Wales, England, Scotland and Ireland! Enjoy!!



The Podzine 31/3/08 Mon, 31 Mar 2008 06:09:21 GMT

This show is all about getting back to basics and so we speak with Simon Ellar editor of Bushcraft Magazine about how the interest in bushcraft is gaining increased participation from those who enjoy other outdoor pastimes. Then continuing on the mixed interest theme of todays show, we hear from Ed Bassett from EB Adventures and to Wayne Jones of Forest Knights. Plus diary news, and a great new competition.



Outdoors Show Special - Bloggers! Mon, 24 Mar 2008 08:04:55 GMT

The first of our series of compilation interviews recorded at The OS Outdoors Show 2008. Andy Howell meets the 'outdoor bloggers' at their second annual gathering. Where else but on Saturday lunchtime, in the bar, with a drink in hand!



The Podzine 24/3/08 Mon, 24 Mar 2008 08:03:39 GMT

A real smorgasbord of a show for you this week! Get trendy with a Slackline (and win one too!), find out about being a jolly swagman, consider the benefits of joining the Open Canoe Association, understand more about wildlife, trapping and pest control and find true outdoor romance!! Enjoy!!



Commuting Home by Bike! Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:04:40 GMT

Richard Harding is a commuter. His chosen mode of transport is the ever green bicycle. His current work in the UK hi tech industry is coming to an end and, as one might expect, he's decided to commute home. Nothing unusual in that, except that 'home' is now in New Zealand and starting at the end of March he's trying to be home for Christmas!



The Podzine 17/3/08 Sun, 16 Mar 2008 20:20:15 GMT

Back from 2008 OS Outdoors Show at the NEC we sample some of the atmosphere and bring you the finalists from the Alpkit Colab competition plus comments from several folks who visited the show. Andy and I give our round up thoughts at the conclusion of the event and there's a goody bag full of interesting items to be won. Loads of interviews gathered at the show and much more coming in the next few weeks.



Cicerone Press - Paddy Dillon National T ... Mon, 10 Mar 2008 13:13:16 GMT

Opened in 1965, the Pennine Way was Britain?s first national trail. Since then another 14 have been designated in England and Wales, with a further 4 in Scotland. Together they cover well over 5000 kilometres each one with unique qualities which explore the rich, scenic and historic countryside of Britain. Paddy Dillon has walked all the trails ? twice! Here he talks about his love of the routes and his new guide, ?The National Trails? a complete compilation of all Britain?s National Trail walking routes.



Cicerone Press - Paddy Dillon Islomania Mon, 10 Mar 2008 12:41:06 GMT

Islomania is defined as a craze for, or a strong attraction to islands? and Paddy Dillon has the bug! Paddy is a prolific outdoor writer with over 30 books to his name. Here we find out just how many islands he has visited (and walked all over!), and what makes island visits so very special. You can get loads of great holiday ideas here!



Cicerone Press - Mark Richards Author Mon, 10 Mar 2008 12:11:59 GMT

Mark Richards? transition from full-time farmer to full-time outdoor writer has been a gradual one. In 1973, with the direct encouragement of Alfred Wainwright, he wrote his first walking guide to the Cotswold Way. Since then he has indulged his pleasure in exploring rural Britain by creating a range of walking guides, including guides to the Peak District, Hadrian?s Wall and more recently the ambitious series of ?Fellranger? guides to the Lake District, supported by ?Great Mountain Days in the Lake District?, a new guide to 50 days out in the high fells.



Cicerone Press - Photography Mon, 10 Mar 2008 11:28:26 GMT

Photography and the outdoors could have been made for each other, yet we all sometimes find there is a disappointing miss-match between what we wanted to capture, and what we actually achieved! Jon Sparks has developed his youthful hobby into a professional career, and here he offers some valuable tips for outdoor enthusiasts, whatever their sport or destination.



Cicerone Press - Pembrokeshire Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:46:57 GMT

Pembrokeshire contains Britain?s only coastal National Park, such is its beauty, with soaring rugged cliffs, tranquil inlets and broad sandy beaches. There is immense variety in both the scenery and natural life of the Pembrokeshire coast. Dennis and Jan Kelsall talk about their lifetime of exploration on foot, which can be equally satisfying for serious walkers and those more inclined to potter.



The Podzine 10/3/08 Mon, 10 Mar 2008 07:12:18 GMT

Welcome back to this weeks show, where we talk, tarps, tripods and fishing. This week we meet Jed Yarnold and discuss tarpoligy, Vic Soloman who tells us about the new Manfrotto carbon fiber tripods and Kevin Ashton about the practicalities of using a sea kayak as a fishing platform. Plus of course, our What's On Diary and the chance to win one of the remaining VIP 10 pairs of tickets we have to give away for The Outdoors Show.



The Podzine 3/3/08 Sun, 02 Mar 2008 18:28:32 GMT

We're back with the first in our series of weekly shows to let all lovers of the outdoors know what is going on around them. In this weeks show we chat to the editor of a new Ocean Paddler Magazine, PGL Holidays who are looking for new instructors and Kate Thomas regarding the forthcoming Outdoors Show. Plus of course, our What's On Diary and the chance to win one of 40 pairs of tickets we have to give away for The Outdoors Show.



Podzine - Lord Smith Interview Thu, 21 Feb 2008 19:02:09 GMT

Lord Smith of Finsbury is now well known as the President of the Ramblers? Association, but in 1997 - as plain Chris Smith MP - he became Culture Secretary in Tony Blair?s incoming government. Working with colleagues he paved the way for the introduction of the Access legislation that is now well used by ramblers and hillwalkers throughout England and Wales. In this interview we talk to Lord Smith about the 100 year fight to introduce a right to roam, consider how these laws might be extended further and how we can best give young people better opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.



Cicerone Press - The Book Story Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:49:39 GMT

Guidebooks can provide the reader with far more than just a route description. A good guide has essential background information for travel, accommodation, alternative routes, difficulty and above all, provides inspiration. Cicerone have been publishing guides for forty years, and the current team are as enthusiastic as ever as they describe what?s involved in making a great guidebook. Sponsored by Cicerone Press.



Cicerone Press - GR5 and GR20 Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:32:37 GMT

An Alpine walk from Lake Geneva to Nice, and the legendary GR20, reputedly Europe?s toughest trek. Paddy Dillon has walked both of these routes at least twice, and has written guidebooks to them both. Here he discusses both routes, and looks at how they can be combined to create a trek to excite you for the entire summer. Sponsored by Cicerone Press.



Cicerone Press - Navigation Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:31:48 GMT

One of the keys to unlocking the hills and countryside is to have the ability to navigate confidently using a map and compass. Having this ability is a liberating experience, and we talk to navigation expert Pete Hawkins about what is involved in learning these skills. Sponsored by Cicerone Press.



The Travel Show - Australia Fri, 15 Feb 2008 10:31:04 GMT

Becky Alison talks us through a more gentle approach to her Gap Year travel. As someone more cautious about traveling so far from home, she chose to go through established companies and contacts, slowly building up her confidence before returning to Australia a second time and really going for it!



The Kayak Show - Jim Kennedy Fri, 15 Feb 2008 10:28:13 GMT

The West of Ireland is an attractive destination for sea kayakers, with its deeply indented coastline and challenging weather patterns. Jim Kennedy of Atlantic Sea Kayaking has a passion for this area and talks to Simon Willis regarding his top three routes, around Skibbereen in West Cork.



Around The World On Horseback Thu, 07 Feb 2008 18:19:02 GMT

We meet Basha O'Reilly once again and discuss the planning and preparation for her forthcoming 2008 trip, the world's first circumnavigation on horseback. Gear, safety, health, planning, fitness and good old fashioned luck, will all play a part.



The Kayak Show - Nigel Dennis Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:42:42 GMT

In this show Simon Willis talks to well know sportsman Nigel Dennis turned Kayaker, and finds out when, where and what turned him onto this sport.



The Travel Show - Peru Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:38:15 GMT

In this travel show we meet Beth who tells us of her 2006 Gap Year in Peru where she mixed it with traveling around neighboring countries for several months. Of course this included Machu Pichu, Lake Titicaca and a mountain bike ride down Death Road, sand boarding and the Nascar lines all formed part of this adventure!



Podzine - The Long Riders Guild Thu, 17 Jan 2008 17:40:56 GMT

One form of traveling we haven't covered so far on The Outdoor Station is horseback. Mainly because we assumed that very few, if any, people still travel this way. However, how wrong we were! We are fortunate to meet a member of The Long Riders Guild. Lightweight horse riders out to see the world, and boy do they travel some miles!



The Travel Show - Fiji/Australia Thu, 17 Jan 2008 16:39:57 GMT

This time we are off to the South Pacific to 'castaway island' for a marine project, where in 2004 Fergus Brown spend his time on a Gap Year project, before heading to Australia and New Zealand to see what it had to offer.



The Kayak Show - Brian Wilson Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:14:45 GMT

Brian Wilson is author of two of the most addictive and enjoyable Sea Kayaking books, Blazing Paddles and Dancing With Waves, which came as a result of his trip around the coast of Scotland and Ireland a few years back. Here he chats with Simon Willis from Sea Kayak Routes and tells the story of his paddling, his writing and his next book.



The Podzine 24/12/07 Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:22:20 GMT

Merry Christmas everyone! Andy Howell joins me for the Christmas show where we have a yomp across the hills, sample some real ale, and chat about 2007 and where we might be heading off to for 2008. Rose and Kate also join us and we all sit around a roaring fire in an award winning pub. What a life!



The Travel Show - Cambodia/Thailand/Aust ... Wed, 19 Dec 2007 08:02:42 GMT

After leaving 6th form in 2004, Naomi Cartwright spend her Gap Year project at a school for disabled children in Cambodia. Afterwards she saw more of the country before heading into Thailand and down to Australia trying to make her money last as long as possible. Full of useful tips and ideas for anyone wanting to do a similar route.



Judy Armstrong - Alpine Challenge Tue, 18 Dec 2007 08:38:00 GMT

After 10 months, 4000 mountain miles, of which 450 were snowshoeing miles Judy Armstrong is pack from her epic Via Alpina trip. Traveling with just a 5kg pack she tells of her experiences and shares her love for that part of the world.



The Podzine 17/12/07 Sun, 16 Dec 2007 20:52:09 GMT

This week we chat with the on-line enthusiasts who are keeping a log of their activities and share their passion for their hobby for us all to enjoy. We catch with Judy Armstrong on her return from her 4000 mile Via Alpina trip and meet some popular outdoor bloggers to find out why they do, what they do! Plus of course we announce the competition winner for the Lightwave rucksack and launch another exciting prize!



Lightweight in Snowdonia Tue, 11 Dec 2007 16:19:37 GMT

Andy Howell joins Colin Ibbotson for a lightweight tarp weekend in Snowdonia during late summer 07. They share the Welsh weather, simple shelters, some local sustenance and interesting conversations all about long distance lightweight hiking.



The Travel Show - Gap Year Search Mon, 10 Dec 2007 11:16:03 GMT

Where to start looking for information regarding your gap year or sabbatical is getting harder as there's so much choice. We interview the 'google' search engine for service providers, and meet the Gap Year company described as the Rolls-Royce of the industry. But don't forget travel safety and awareness with the team who advised Ewan Mcgregor and Charlie Boorman. Plus, keep taking the tablets guys! Its more important that you might think!!



The Podzine 10/12/07 Thu, 06 Dec 2007 10:58:32 GMT

In this show we review interesting gear released this year with Chris Townsend, and Andy Howell has a rummage through his bookshelf for some of the more exciting books to keep you company during the darker days. Plus we of course announce the winners to last week competition and give you the chance to win a Lightwave rucksack before Christmas!



The Travel Show - Gambia Wed, 05 Dec 2007 09:43:26 GMT

Jane Smith a primary school ITC supply teacher, who tells us about her experience of stepping out of the box, and her work and travelling experiences in very rural Gambia. This came about via a simple local connection in the UK and this relationship has continued, into this third year.



The Podzine 3/12/07 Sat, 01 Dec 2007 16:49:27 GMT

Into December we go with another Podzine where we meet Max Graves from Vango who takes us through some exciting new products for 2008 and we meet up again with Lillian Sullivan from Ardblair, to discuss underwear! Plus of course a bit of a chit chat, a small diary section and this weeks competition to win the new National Trails book by Paddy Dillon.



The Travel Show - Earn as You Go! Thu, 29 Nov 2007 10:46:42 GMT

Once again we look at the exciting world of travel and explore how you could travel, learn and earn all at the same time! Commercial China is rapidly expanding, is it right for you? Looking for your first job in a difficult UK market, why? What about taking a leap of faith into the unknown and learning to fly? Ideas, ideas, ideas ......



The Travel Show - Health Mon, 26 Nov 2007 12:28:20 GMT

A new series of podcasts within The Outdoors Station which specifically looks at all aspects of overseas travel for gappers, sabbaticals or just extended trips. In this first show we look at the simplest and most important aspect of all, your health! We meet Practice Nurse Sue Taylor, and touch on basic hygiene, injections and avoiding simple accidents which can bring any trip to a sudden end.



The Podzine 26/11/07 Sat, 24 Nov 2007 17:20:03 GMT

Food glorious food with Expedition Foods and what exciting new designs have we got to look forward to from AKU for 2008? Plus of course trade gossip, how to understand women on the hills and a new competition to win an Inov-8 goodie bag!



The Podzine - Foraging for Fungi! Tue, 20 Nov 2007 10:56:14 GMT

In this Podzine we spend a few wet hours in the delightful company of The Worcestershire Fungus Group, in Shrawley Woods in Worc's. Here we learn to 'see' fungus amongst leaf litter, and to recognize just a few of the edible species from the thousands which grow throughout the UK.



The Podzine 19/11/07 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 18:24:37 GMT

Welcome back to this weeks show, where we chat to the world famous photographer Colin Prior regarding his new photographic courses (an ideal Christmas present) which have been running now for almost 2 years. There's a 'what's on' diary section for people in the south of the country, a bit of gossip and a new competition to win 12 of Colin's 2008 calendars. Inspirational stuff!



The Podzine 12/11/07 Fri, 09 Nov 2007 17:19:15 GMT

On this weeks Podzine we chat to the Brigit Kendrick from Ordnance Survey and find out more about their free 'explore' portal for user generated routes. Nick Smith from Alpkit drops by to discuss the Colab competition they are running and the on-going search for your good outdoor ideas. We also take a peek at the December issues of Camping and Trail Magazines and you have the chance to win a £105 Alpkit Pipedream 400 sleeping bag! Download now! What a great show!



The Podzine 5/11/07 Sun, 04 Nov 2007 16:16:50 GMT

And so the weekly shows keeps coming! This week we chat with Buff and look at the new products bubbling under for 2008 and we speak with Trangia and Wayfarer Food distributor AMG. We also visit the best town pub in the UK which is a stone's throw from the hills and Horror, Shock, probe it actually welcomes muddy walkers and their dogs, plus we give you a chance to win some exciting new products from Buff!



The Abu Dhabi hiking scene! Thu, 01 Nov 2007 09:50:02 GMT

Sponsored by backpackinglight.co.uk I chat with Roy Richards in Abu Dhabi, who has recently been in the desert climbing mountains with others in a very remote region. When you hear the interview you'll understand why 'lightweight' is the way to go especially when carrying 6kg+ in water!



The Podzine 29/10/07 Fri, 26 Oct 2007 15:26:08 GMT

On this weeks show we interview Lifesaver Systems regarding a new water purification product, catch up with El Alto after a years trading with ethically made clothing, review a couple of blogs, look at the outdoor 'what's on' and give you chance to win a Moppel!



The Podzine 22/10/07 Fri, 19 Oct 2007 17:32:48 GMT

The start of the week, a new show and more interviews, this time with Wild Country and Leki regarding forthcoming 2008 products. Plus a double 'Christmas list' book review, a very large social 'what's on' and the all important weekly competition to win valuable prizes!



The all new Podzine - 15/10/07 Mon, 15 Oct 2007 14:40:18 GMT

The new Podzine show, includes an interview with Inov-8 designer Graham Jordison for some background information about the new Rocklite 390 GTX and Chris Watts distributor of MSR gear in the UK, who explains what make the Reactor stove so efficient. Plus there's a head to head review of Novembers Trail and TGO Magazine, a what's on diary for the next few weeks and a competition win some some Golite products!



Sex In A Tent! Wed, 10 Oct 2007 15:11:43 GMT

The new book Sex In A Tent is just hitting the shelves all over the world and we get an exclusive interview with the author Michelle Waitzman. She tells us about her research, some of the people she met with interesting stories and how to introduce your partner to the 'all' the pleasures the great outdoors can offer!



Bushcraft in the UK Fri, 21 Sep 2007 08:08:49 GMT

The popularity of bushcraft or woodcraft, call it what you will, is steadily growing in the UK. More people are wanting to find out about their surroundings to maximize their enjoyment, for short days walks, just as much as long treks. I speak with Tony Bristow editor of BushcraftUK magazine and website regarding the development and potential future of this interesting pastime.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 14 Fri, 24 Aug 2007 15:21:57 GMT

The Thursday night meal and celebration at the Park Hotel in Montrose, is where Challengers meet up with old friends to share their experiences, hear hiking stories and congratulate each other for completing the trip. A night of good humour, companionship and for making plans for next time. During this particular evening I talk with Craig Macpherson from Texas, Rolk Kerikoff from Holland, Peter Varley, Jennet Tenant, Christine Roach and Ann Ling and of course conclude with final words from organizer Roger Smith.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 13 Wed, 22 Aug 2007 18:17:18 GMT

The final days walking involved navigating the notorious Fetteresso forest and the many misleading paths. However we finally make it to Stonehaven in one piece on a beautiful sunny day ready for the traditional paddle in the sea. Andy and Kate also complete their route to Montrose and relax on the campsite before enjoying the Wednesday night celebratory meal at the Park Hotel.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 12 Mon, 20 Aug 2007 09:14:16 GMT

Andy and Kate have a moment of reflection on this their last night at Northwater Bridge camspite and consider how they feel about this years crossing. At Spittal Cott I empty out my bag and review each item in turn and discuss what I did and didn't use and which items I could do without for next time, passing on any tips where I can.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 11 Wed, 15 Aug 2007 10:27:41 GMT

Finally we all arrive at the welcome haven of Tarfside and while we camp on the playing field, Andy and Kate take the soft option of warm beds and clean linen! In the hostel Andy has a very interesting chat with Rob Hausam who is hiking in sandles, while I catch up with Doug Scott, Beppe Valfre and Simone Pinzolo. The following day we head to The Retreat for a full breakfast before once again parting company and heading different ways to the coast.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 10 Tue, 14 Aug 2007 12:50:40 GMT

We meet Andy and Kate on route to Loch Callater Lodge and then share the rest of the journey over Jocks Road to find a secluded little spot in the woods, for a good rest and chat about using lightweight gear on the Challenge. Loch Callater has to be one of the most charming glens you could ever wish to walk along.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 9 Fri, 10 Aug 2007 15:56:56 GMT

One of the best known characters of the Challenge is Alan Sloman who always seems to be at the heart of any of the many social gatherings which take place during the crossing. This year he had somehow managed to combine the traverse of Scotland with a Lands End to John O'Groats walk for charity. A total of over 1600 miles. Of course, once he had finished the Challenge he then had to walk back to the West coast to reach his goal. This full length interview covers all aspects of his trip, the mental, the physical, the environment and of course, the gear!



2007 TGO Challenge Part 8 Fri, 10 Aug 2007 15:42:40 GMT

While Andy and Kate enjoy a restful start to their day off, our damp little group gather ourselves together before heading into Braemar for some well earned refreshments. Once in town we naturally head for the Fife Arms, and meet up with other challengers Peter Shepherd, Colin Ibbotson and David Albon.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 7 Thu, 09 Aug 2007 14:22:26 GMT

Andy starts the day by sharing the beauty of Glen Feshie, while we pack up and leave Martin to head via the Burma Road to Aviemore. We have one last brew stop before we arrive in town and hit the shops. The following day I have to say farewell to a tearful Rose and continue on my own in the hope of meeting Lee Wells and Tony Bone. Eventually we make it to Derry Lodge and look for sheltered spot away from the brewing storm.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 6 Wed, 08 Aug 2007 19:51:42 GMT

Andy and Kate start from Laggan, while Rose and I cross Loch Ness early in the morning before heading into the Monaghliath Mountains via Errogie. On route we meet Martin Banfield and Ian Cotterill and share a few miles with them and end the day at a lovely riverside camping spot where do a bit of a gear review.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 5 Fri, 03 Aug 2007 11:44:03 GMT

A day of rest for us and an easy day for Andy and Kate. Interviews with Mountain Guide Richard Kermode, Challengers Ian Gillies snr, Ian Gillies jnr, John Watson, Lee Wells and Tony Bowe. Plus we chat to locals Drumnadrochit B&B owner Laurence Selleck and the Loch Ness Ferryman Gordon Menzies.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 4 Wed, 01 Aug 2007 20:57:32 GMT

Day four and we are all on our way now, settling into the trip and doing battle with the ticks. Includes interviews with other challengers Maurice Gray, Ant Cathcart, Peter Goodwin, Jonathon Smith and Susanne Monka.



2007 TGO Challenge Part 3 Thu, 26 Jul 2007 16:32:19 GMT

Day three of the challenge and the cold wind starts to bite! Shoulders ache and feet start to get sore. Includes interviews with Gill Blair the warden at the remotest YH in the UK and Darren Christie and his timely rescue.



Podzine - Friedrichshafen Part Three Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:51:50 GMT

The last in our series from the huge outdoor trade fair in Germany. This time we have interview with Square Peg (Care Plus), Blue Desert, Body Glide, Eberhard Gooble, Totseat and Sprayway. A packed show full of atmosphere!



Podzine - Friedrichshafen Part Two Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:26:05 GMT

Yet more from the big trade fair in Germany. This time we have interviews with Steripen, Coup at Golite about the new tents and footwear and Lighthiker Roman Ackl, for his impressions of the show.



Podzine - Friedrichshafen Part One Wed, 25 Jul 2007 13:26:11 GMT

Just back from the huge trade fair in Germany. This podzine includes interviews with Silk Body, Klattermusen, Vargo Outdoors and Sat Map regarding the forthcoming 2008 products!



Bob and Andy's Seaside Adventure Thu, 19 Jul 2007 16:08:18 GMT

Bob and Andy once again venture out into the wilds of Wales, for a coastal tarp and bivvy adventure. Sleeping under the stars, living off the land and catching fresh fish is the aim. On route someone steals their perfect camping spot. How will they cope and who is this person anyway?



2007 TGO Challenge Part 2 Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:55:30 GMT

Part two from 'The Tale of Two Podcasters' where 2 couples are walking across Scotland as part of the Rab TGO Challenge. Andy and Kate enjoy a good first day and night, whereas Bob and Rose begin the first of many battles with the infamous Scottish 'Midge' on their second day.



Podzine - Ultralight Hiking in Northern ... Fri, 13 Jul 2007 10:43:10 GMT

The podcast everyone has been waiting for! Andy Howell chats to Colin Ibbotson the lightest man on the recent 2 week TGO Challenge at 3.7kg, and Roman Ackl (Lighthiker from Germany) about the practicalities and safety issues of hiking lightweight in Northern Europe.