MR Bryan Maywood, principal of Launceston College, and Mr Jack Jackson, executive principal of Launceston College Multi Academy Trust, met with the students and staff who participated in this year’s Ten Tors Jubilee Challenge event, to thank and congratulate them on their splendid efforts whilst representing the college.

The Jubilee Challenge event held on May 6th alongside the Ten Tors event, enables those students who require extra support to still have the opportunity to test themselves against the rugged Dartmoor terrain and its various weather systems over one day. The five Launceston College students representing the school this year are experienced walkers, having participated previously over different courses.

Max Harmer of 12PM obtained his third gold medal, to go with his silver and bronze having trained with Ms Carol Unwin since 2012. Tom Hopper and Harry Read 12EH received their second gold medals, also to go with their silver and bronze ones, having participated with Ms Unwin since 2013. These boys made up the ‘stinger’ team (in recognition of their allegiance to Hepworth House and their House Head Ms Julie Nettle). Mr Matt Mitcheson, who has been assisting with their training since 2014, accompanied this fast walking, long striding team as they walked the 15 mile JC 4 course.

Jess McAlpine (12EH) obtained her gold medal, following a silver and bronze, by walking the JC 3 course covering some 12 miles, accompanied by Ms Jo Carlton and guest walker Mr Pete Hamblin. Jess has shown remarkable resilience and determination this year during training and thoroughly deserved her medal.

Kirstie Whittington (10CB) received her silver medal after walking the JC 2 course over 9 1/2 miles. This represented a major achievement for Kirstie who has had to overcome significant hurdles en route to her success. It is hoped that this achievement spurs her on to even greater things in the future. Kirstie was accompanied by Ms Unwin, the project co-coordinator and two guest walkers (Katie and Maddy from Mount Kelly School).

Behind the scenes Mrs Kate Harmer and Ms Mimi Owen remained at the camp on the day to act as ‘site managers’ in case of any ‘fall outs’ a function they have kindly performed in previous years. Fortunately they were not needed in that capacity but were extremely helpful in taking down the camp at the end along with other parents.

Mr Jackson said: ”They should be fantastically proud of themselves and ‘I thank them’ on behalf of the College for representing us in such a brilliant way and displaying the 100% commitment and effort they’ve shown.”

Ms Unwin thanked the parents and carers of the students, without whose constant support and encouragement, opportunities like the Jubilee Challenge would not be possible. Finally she expressed her thanks to the 1st Artillery Brigade and South West, supported by the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, Dartmoor National Park Authority , the emergency services, Dartmoor Search and Rescue Group and EOTC, who organise and logistically support this event.