OLD GIRLS

'Trek Nepal provided an experience of a life time for Ros Hayes, former Headmistress of Malvern St James and Patron of the Old Girls' Association, Old Girl Vicki Billings (Gaut), and Pet Jones, current Deputy Housemistress of Greenslade.

The trek, organised by Parkinson's UK to raise money for research into a cure for Parkinson's disease, took part in the Annapurna area of the Himalayas.

In total, twenty eight trekkers, supported by thirty four Sherpa, porters and cooks, set out to complete a six day journey though stunning scenery.

Each day started at 6.00am, with Sherpa waking trekkers with a cup of tea and a bowl of warm water in which to wash, before providing a hearty breakfast of porridge, eggs and toast. 6-7 hours of walking then followed before arriving at the next camp in the late afternoon - just in time to put on thermal layers before the sun went down.

Setting foot on the Annapurna trail was like stepping back in time. The trappings and distractions of modern society vanished. Life goes on in the mountain villages much as it must have a century ago.

The sound of motor vehicles is replaced with the sounds of rivers and waterfalls, of women tending gardens, children walking to and from school, men carrying goods on their backs or playing games. As everything has to be carried into the mountains on the backs of porters, luxury items are scarce, local products are handmade and buildings are erected without machinery.

Highlights of the trip included reaching the summit of Poon Hill to view the spectacular panorama of the Annapurna range, meeting the local people and flying to see Mt Everest. Although the route was tough, the walking presented fewest problems; the worst aspect was keeping warm at night when camping in temperatures of -5^oC!!

Most members of the group had been touched in some way by Parkinson's disease either directly or through giving support to close family members and friends. The camaraderie amongst the group was fantastic and it is hoped that total sponsorship will reach over £100,000. Thank you to everyone who gave so generously to support this event.'

Ros sent in this report and the stunning photos showing Mount Everest to the OGA office just days after her return in early December.