In September 2019, six personnel from Number 501 Logistic Support Squadron swapped their usual specialist vehicles for canoe boats on the River Wye.
Heading out early, the team set off for Wye Adventures, Symonds Yat in Ross-on-Wye, for a day of teamwork and mindfulness. The water was very calm and provided perfect conditions for a paddle downstream in the canoes.
“Once into the rhythm of paddling it was just great fun to watch the world go by at such a sedate pace. The river was practically a mill pond and the weather exactly what you’d want, sunny but not too hot. Sat in the same canoe was Corporal Haigh and we got the hang of controlling it quite quickly. Having been canoeing in the past, it can be extremely relaxing and was very pleased to take part.”
Corporal Karen Mellows-Marais
Number 501 Squadron
After a quick pit stop for lunch in the sun on a grass verge next to the river, the team were eager to get back on the water. While maintaining the steady pace they were able to notice the curves in the river, the slightly exaggerated ripples as they came up to shallower parts and the tiny rapids were a short time of excitement as they crossed them. Repositioning to the opposite side of the flow whenever they approached people fishing.
Karen added:
“There was a lovely light-heartedness surrounding the whole time we were out on the water. If relaxation, living in the moment and putting the worries of life on hold were the aim of the day, it most certainly achieved exactly that in my eyes. I would fully recommend this activity to anyone; it was a wonderful day that saw us team building, communicating and helping our wellbeing.”
Corporal Karen Mellows-Marais
Number 501 Squadron
