This is the point that several weeks of preparation came to fruition for cadets from 198 and 29F squadrons as they set of for their D of E bronze expedition. The start point was Middleton Top in Derbyshire, on the walk known as the Midshires Way . The weather was good although a bit windy but the cadets set off in good spirits, waving from a bridge to the staff as they departed. The cadets set off in three teams at 20 min intervals with various tasks and check points along the way. The route that had been planned was a 10 mile walk through some of the most wonderful scenery in Derbyshire.

The first day involved navigating along tracks and footpaths to reach such villages as Grangemill, Wensley and Birchover. This involved negotiating several small valleys and countless small hills. The cadets camped overnight at Barn Farm camp site just outside Birchover, where they got to practice their skills of using the stars to navigate. Day two started with low cloud and a strong wind. The cadets broke camp at 08:00 ready to set off at 20 min intervals again. The teams set off in good spirit with maps flapping in the wind and once again a wave for the Staff. The days route would take them from Birchover through Elton, across Harthill moor up to Youlgreave, through Lathkill dale to the finishing point at Haddon Grove. The cadets completed this walk at about 1530 covered, up to their knees in mud, worn out, but happy. All the teams finished within 15 mins of each other. A good weekend was had by all.