April hails the start of the Duke of Edinburgh expedition season.

This year the hail seems more literal. April usually brings an assortment of weather with sunshine and showers. But this year seems to have brought more sunshine and snow. Lambing snows might be a slight underestimation.

“Have you checked the weather forecast?” my usual question for the 15 year old students excited about getting out camping as the start of their D of E journey. With shorts and t-shirt weather the previous week I could foresee a few students being rather underprepared. Minus 4 was warned by one weather provider and I knew it would feel that cold in the wind.

Making sure I check the extreme rating on sleeping bags and the waterproof capabilities of jackets and trousers it was time to head off to the mighty Loch Lommond to brave the conditions.

With winds blowing up to force 4 and many a cold arctic blast from the north we tried our best to stay warm and dry. April also saw me out on my first walking Duke of Edinburgh expedition of the season with the usual route including sections across the southern upland way.

Canoes all tucked in for the night

My office chair for the day

Staff meeting on Loch Lommond

The boss

Tarp and hammock set up

Teriyaki and ginger stir fry for dinner

Descent into Wanlockhead