It is impossible to forget moments like these. This is me with an Unawatuna fisherman in Sri Lanka exactly one year after the Tsunami destroyed his boat and his livelihood. Fishing was all he new. He told me that he had suffered for many months to survive and rebuild his life. At the time of this photo he had received a new fishing boat via International Aid and he wanted me to know how important that was to him. He was a very natural and simple man, with a burning heart of gold. There were oil candles burning around us, thousands of them - each one representative of a single person lost to the Tsunami. How could I ever forget this brave man, this stalwart of human strength and courage? I have included this photo as I think it really captured the moment and how we both felt.
The official start of my trek - Minehead - August 2010
3 days later I awake right here, after putting this tent up in the darkness (using a powerful head torch).
I spend some time drinking beer with the locals at the Hunters Inn. Sorry I forgot your names. But thanks for the company, humour and encouragement. Maybe see you again next year!
I'm in shock! Bring me another beer!
The beautifully positioned Hunters Inn, less than 2 miles from the cliff camp shown above. Great beer, great food, great people! And thanks for letting me crash out in your field. Hello to the gorgeous barmaids too! Wish I had your photos.
This man from Poole in Dorset stopped for a friendly chat a mile or 2 before my ascent of the Great Hangman (1000 feet summit). His children were horseriding nearby. He had a good laugh with me over my dread of the hangman and gave me TEN POUNDS towards the charity.
Kerry had traveled in India and was quite a laugh with her stories of Filth n Gloom and Combe Martians!
I had such a tricky time in the web cafe Kerry - I wasn't able to make the other pub in time to catch you and your friends - never mind, maybe next year? And just where do you think your left hand is going? Naughty!
A wonderful young chap called Zak (is that spelt right) and his Father - camping at Combe Martin.
Zak had been stung by a wasp on his ear a day or 2 earlier - but the doctor didn't need to cut it off in the end.
I taught Zak how to get rid of wasps - the gentle way - hope you all got home safely.
Thanks for the bacon sandwiches - mmmmmmmmmm - just the job.
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