A month ago I had no idea that on Sunday afternoon in July I'd be 50 metres above the ground and enjoying it. Now I looked down at the river far below me and realised why people love rock climbing.
My friend Will and I had arrived at the Activity Centre on Saturday evening. The accommodation wasn't great, but we had everything we needed; beds, blankets and some food. Plus we were pleased to be out of the city and in the fresh air.
On Sunday morning, we met the other ten members of our group. James had come along with two friends, Harry and George, while sisters Maria and Sara had come with Isabella. We had come from many different places, so none of us knew the area.
We knew we were going to spend some time outdoors, but none of us was sure exactly how. Half of us spent the morning caving while the others went rock climbing and then we changed at lunchtime. Will and I went to the caves first. Climbing out was harder than going in, but after a good deal of pushing, we got out at last. We were covered in mud but pleased and excited by what we had done.