If you happen to live in or around the West Midlands, you’ll know the area is well known for its canals and urban waterways. Reservists from B Squadron the Royal Yeomanry in Dudley were lucky enough to swap our ‘more canals than Venice’ and plenty of pigeons scene, for a day of sea kayaking and seal spotting on the historic Jurassic Coast.
The unit had already planned a weekend range training package outside of Exmouth, with the location lending itself well to adding on an extra day’s activity for their adventure training contingent. Here’s how it all panned out, as explained by a member of their Squadron.
“The adventure training team met up with their instructors at Meadfoot Beach just outside Torquay, with the group made up of a mix of novices and people who had kayaked before.
“Setting off from the beach, the first way point was Thatcher Rock; an impressive vertical rock island home to a variety of sea birds including cormorants. It was here that the group encountered their first seal, who seemed as inquisitive of them as they were of it!
“The instructors set them off around a nameless rock and Hope’s Nose on the mainland, heading for a small beach at Hope’s Nose Quarry for a quick leg stretch and breather. It was then off again along the rugged coast, heading for Anstey’s Cove for a BBQ lunch on the beach.
“Whilst at the cove a couple of dolphins appeared in the bay and the team took to the water again to get a better view. Sadly a pesky motorboat chased the dolphins away, but it was great to see such amazing creatures so close to the coast. The afternoon was spent exploring caves along the shoreline from the water and the occasional foray out of the boats to jump into the sea from the rocks, before heading back across Lyme Bay to the start point.
“A few more seals were spotted and came very close to the group. The weather had been very kind and everyone was thoroughly shattered after a great day.
“The rest of our range cohort arrived and everyone enjoyed the CQB pistol ranges on the Saturday. It’s an amazing asset right on the coast and one we shall try to use again. There is talk of a two-day kayaking expedition next year, with a beach sleepover, such is the enthusiasm of the event.”
Our Association was pleased to contribute to the cost of this adventure training through a small grant, via income generated by our Alternative Venues. Find out more about the Army Reserve in our region.
Published 05/10/23