ONE member of staff and three cadets, all members of 1002 (Ross-on-Wye) Sqn ATC, took part in an open Gold expedition, joining with other organisations to complete what turned out to be a very difficult six days. The expedition covered a distance of 50 miles and the nights were spent wild camping, which meant that they had to carry all that they needed for the four days with them. The other two days were spent familiarising themselves with the area and final route planning. Christopher Stones, a pupil at John Kyrle High School said: "We had planned to carry out this part of the award in August as it was thought that it would offer the best weather and therefore much more pleasant conditions for camping out, how wrong we were!" By the time of the expedition the weather was appalling, especially for the days spent on the moor. The only reasonable day proved to be the last one, the other three days and nights were spent in almost constant rain and strong winds. Pitching tents and cooking in these conditions was very wearing, never the less the four returned to Ross jubilant at having passed this and completed the prestigious award. If you are interested in being a Air Training Corps cadet or a member of staff telephone Flt Lt Carol Marsh on 01989 563773 for more information.