On June 3rd, ten enthusiastic members of the Blue Sky team embarked on a memorable 10-mile hike in picturesque Dorset. This adventure was not just a day out in nature but a significant contribution towards supporting MYTIME Young Carers, a charity dedicated to levelling the playing field for young carers.
The event was initiated when our CEO, Gary Neild, successfully bid on an Everly Trails Corporate Day Out at a charity auction, helping to raise an impressive £22,000 for the charity.
The Journey Begins
Our group, including Gary, Lesley, Gemma, Theresa, Russell, Tammy, Dave, Pete, Emma (Hardy), and Dan, set off at 9:45 am from Worth Matravers. The weather was perfect, with clear skies and a gentle breeze. Our hike began with a serene walk through the village of Worth Matravers and across lush fields, leading us to our first stop: Chapman’s Pool. Here, we indulged in a bit of fossil hunting, discovering ammonites that connected us to the ancient past of the Jurassic Coast.
A Test of Endurance
The route then led us to St. Adhelm’s Head, where we faced a challenging climb of over 200 steep steps. Despite the strenuous effort, the breathtaking views and the sense of accomplishment made it all worthwhile. At the top, we visited the Coastguard Watch Station. The dedicated volunteers, who only take a break on Christmas Day, provided us with fascinating insights into their vital role in coastal safety and their close coordination with the Coastguard during emergencies.
A Moment of Mindfulness
One of the highlights of our hike was the 15-minute wellbeing walk. During this segment, we walked in silence, listening to the sounds of nature and appreciating the tranquillity around us. This mindful exercise allowed us to disconnect from our daily routines and immerse ourselves in the serene environment, offering a refreshing mental reset. It was beautiful.
Exploring Historic Sites
Our next destination was Winspit Quarry, where the impressive caves left us in awe. We then continued to Dancing Ledge, a popular spot for swimmers. Although none of us took a dip, we enjoyed watching others brave the waters. The journey then took us uphill to Spyway Barn and along the Priest’s Way, where we marvelled at the dinosaur footprints, a testament to the ancient history of the region.
A Well-Deserved Rest
Our hike concluded at the Square and Compass Pub, where we arrived around 5:30 pm. Exhausted but elated, we treated ourselves to a well-deserved drink, reminiscing about the day’s adventures and sharing stories of laughter and camaraderie – we were also joined by other members of the Blue Sky team at this time. We each clocked between 25,000 to 30,000 steps, feeling the satisfying ache of a day well spent in nature.
Memorable Moments
The hike was filled with laughter and memorable moments, such as Dave’s near-miss with a muddy patch. Although he managed to stay upright, he did end up a bit muddier than the rest of us! Our hike leader, Ben Lees-Smith from Everly Trails, was an exceptional guide. His enthusiasm and knowledge made the hike even more enjoyable. We also learned about his upcoming participation in the Comrades Marathon in South Africa, a 55-mile ultramarathon. We wished him the best of luck in this incredible challenge.
Reflecting on the Experience
This charity hike was not only a physical challenge but also an enriching experience that brought our team closer together while supporting a noble cause. MYTIME Young Carers plays a crucial role in supporting young carers, and we were proud to contribute to their efforts. The beautiful scenery, the historic sites, and the shared moments of joy and reflection made this a day to remember.
