HELLO

Well we did it and are back !!! It was tough but fun. Thank you so much to all those who ave supported us. I know there is still some collecting going on, and if that can be sent it by the end of June that would be amazing.

We will keep the site updated as to the final total raised. It looks as though we will get over £6,500 so we are absolutely thrilled. THANK YOU

t is difficult to explain just how steep and overwhelming the wall can be, especially to a couple of novices ! It is also quite stunning and the most amazing experience. After the first hour both Dave and I wanted to call a paramedic (and I am not joking - it was a real shock to the system), but it is amazing what you can do if you have to and how quickly your body responds to circumstances. There were the usual aches, pains, cramps and blisters you pretty much expect at the end of each day, but you did find your recovery time much shorter each day and your pain barrier higher. This of course never stopped you walking into dinner and breakfast like John Wayne after a long trip, but you were never alone!! We both now have both nerves and calves of steel.

While trekking we climbed what appeared to be the equivalent of Snowden every day in 80 degree plus heat, and carrying on top of our own stuff in back packs also 6 liters of water !! Trust me we are SO much fitter now than when we left and I now walk into work each morning (is 50 mins) as it seemed like popping out for a newspaper in comparison!!

 There was a team of 18 of us in total and everyone was great, which is lucky as not only do you really rely on each other but also you spend so much time with them!! 

  My photo's are in snappy snaps at the mo and the digital is at the bottom of a suitcase, but will try and get a couple out soon!!

 Thanks very much once again, we have appreciated your support more than we can say

Love Dave and Julie x  :-)

Many Thanks to our offline donators & Contributers

Phil Whelan, John and Edie Fox, Audrey & Ian Gibson, Susie and Lloyd Hancock; Lorna & Ron Jessup, Members of C19, Actor Richard Armitage, French Rugby International Thomas Castignede

Hello  from the Hags and Help!    This is a mammoth task, but it's all for a good cause - please help us with our trek and our fundraising.  Lots of details about the Trip and the Charity are below. We also hope to have a Blog very soon as much for the fun of sharing the pain of getting into any kind of shape as actually completing the Walk !Also watch out for other fund raising events and signed goodies on Ebay . Remember if you have anything you would like to donate to our fundraising events please let us know. We are also open to shameless sponsoring of any part of our clothing and packs used for the Trek. . Thanks Everbody!  We think you are all fantastic for supporting us.   We'll send you photos.. Dave & Julie x

THE TRIP 12th-20th May 2007

It all starts from Beijing, eastwards to Huangyaguan and then Taipingzhai. In fact it actually all starts when we both by a decent pair of walking boots, break them in and join a Gym – but do bear with us !! And back to China - Here a warm-up trek along the first section, which begins at Taipingzhai and returns along the Great Wall to the Huangyaguan. sections of the Great Wall . Huangya Pass, requires good negotiation and attention – so one or both of us will need to stop nattering  !      We then depart from Huangyaguan for the Gubeikou Great Wall climbing to Jinshanling and then trekking on the most beautiful section of the Great Wall, which covers some 27 watch-towers over old brick-made steps.  There are sections of renovated and original wall here so a definite photo opportunity. After which we will descend to the ground, preferably still feet first, we walk to the next section trekking to the 12 battlements.  By Day 5 we should have blended marvelously into the scenery and be departing for the climb from Jinshanling to Simatai and some of the most beautiful sections of the wall. With luck and a following wind this should be completed in 8 hours – but do give us a thought that day because … On Day 6 we will dedicate to deep heat as we have our most strenuous trek yet at Mutinayu.  Foot cream and straps at the ready we climb the awesome 1,000 steps and 20 battlements from the foot of the Great Wall to the top of the mountain. On the basis that we will of course survive to Day 7 it will be spent in part helping to repair the Great Wall.  New bricks are carried up the 300 wooden steps to where a watchtower is being repaired.  Trained staff will supervise and place the bricks on the Wall.  From there it’s a gentle stroll for a few hours to the old section of the Badaling Great Wall . On to the wonder that will be Day 8 where we are able to choose our last Trek before literally getting on our bikes to the Ming Tombs and Sacred Avenue, 50kms away for a spot of off-road exploration of the Ming Tombs, including those of the Ding Ling and Chang Ling Emperors. Then back to Bejing and a Farewell Presentation Dinner. Lastly Day 9  - an early breakfast, and back to UK for a few beers and a Soak – possibly in the few beers. Hope to see you then and Thank you for your support. Love The Hags x

 

THE CHARITY

Phoenix Futures is the UK's leading network of drug and alcohol treatment services.  The charity helps thousands of people each year overcome serious and long term dependencies on drugs and alcohol; giving people hope, rebuilding families and transforming lives.

Love The Hags x