Sergeant Emily Pieters from 1094 Squadron (City of Ely) Air Cadets has been canoeing along the Little Ouse river for her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Practice Expedition.
For 3 days and 2 nights, she and her team were completely self sufficient as they paddled between Thetford and Denver.
The practice expedition is like a ‘mock exam’, allowing participants to build teamwork and campcraft skills ahead of the final trip as well as getting the hang of skills unique to canoeing such as working with the waterproof storage barrels which carry all the team’s kit.
The team’s goal for this trip was to collect as much rubbish as possible from the banks of the river. By the end, they had collected several sacks and had even fished out a couple of traffic cones!
“Although it was very cold,” said Emily, “I had a fantastic time! It’s amazing how a bit of teamwork and some campfire songs can boost morale.”
In August, Emily will be traveling to Sweden to complete her final assessed expedition on Lake Store Le. This incredible opportunity will see her complete 4 days and 3 nights in an unfamiliar landscape to complete her Gold Award.
Emily is on a fundraising mission to raise £1000 to achieve this dream and Ely’s Mayor Mike Rouse has offered his support in her fundraising efforts. Emily has revived contributions from local people and family and friends, but there is still a long way to go.
Every little helps any any donation received will be put to good use by Emily to achieve what will be a life changing opportunity. Please click on the link below to donate, thank you.
https://www.gofundme.com/emilys-gold-expedition
From 1094 Ely Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets
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