Last camp - one man's view

We had introduced ourselves sitting in a circle in the community hall. That was before we left the women behind. I had been moved to tears by the man who runs the farm where we camp. His story brought back memories of my own father's closeness.

Over 30 pairs of hands were now erecting our own ceremonial marquee. It was to be a special place where many personal stories were to be told.

Every man brought something to the the group. A skill, a story or just experience. Or we just hung around together and did whatever came naturally to us.

By the time of our return, I knew everyone so well. We had opened our hearts in so many ways. This, our last meal together, was eaten in a circle, as the women who had prepared it for us, looked on from a distance.

My role on the staff had been to help things run smoothly. As I post these pictures so many memories flood back. Alan Raby