Regatta

“There is no such thing as bad weather, Just bad clothing” by Graham Dawson

Winter and the wet! I am one of many in a long line of bike commuters. I have been handed the cycling gene on from my great grandfathers and probably grandfathers before them (if bikes been around that long). One story of a great grandfather is that he used to cycle from his home in the middle of nowhere in Scotland, in the bleakest winters, 6ft of snow on the side of the road for 15 miles, to then catch a bus to his work destination. Dedication doesn’t even begin to describe his work ethic (and puts me to shame!)

I have now been fortunate enough to live close enough to my work place that driving doesn’t seem to be worthwhile and cycling is just about a push to give me a workout. Everything was going great with the weather, up until this week! We have had quite a mild lead up to winter with only a few showers, but nothing to dampen my spirits. However, this week has taken a change for the worse. The temperature has dropped, the skies have clouded over and the rain/sleet/hail has been coming down like the end of the world! Puddles are now forming into Lakes at the side of the road and the Spray coming off the back of cars and lorries is becoming similar to just having a hose sprayed in your face for short periods of time!

So, why do I keep coming into work on my bike you’re probably asking yourself right now! To be honest, it is more down to the clothing I wear. By covering yourself up, you actually eliminate the cold and block out the weather. Bad weather is just a mindset as long as you have the correct clothing.

I make sure that my bike shoes are coated with a water Repellent Finish so that the water stays outside of the shoe instead of inside. I wear Waterproof trousers over top of my tracksuit bottoms, which can make it warmer (but I would take this over soaking wet trousers on arrival at work)! A jacket that is long enough to cover your backside is always a bonus to stop the spray from the wheels riding up and soaking your bum. The jacket needs to also be water Repellent and waterproof so that your clothes do not get wet underneath. Jackets are very important to keeping you dry and warm so don’t wear anything too thin. For my accessories I wear a cycling skull cap, which is made from a stretchy Polyester Fabric and has ventilation in the top to cool the head and fits comfortably underneath my helmet. I also wear gloves which have a water resistant coating so that the water beads away from the glove and doesn’t absorb water. This keeps my hands dry and warm. On extra cold days I will wear a liner glove which is made from a wool-polyester combination to help keep the warmth in but also allows the fabric to wick moisture away.

Once kitted up and cycling away, it is actually a more enjoyable way to get to work. I feel far more invigorated during the morning than if I drive. It makes me alert and sharp as cycling makes me constantly think about the environment around me. Once at the office, a quick change of clothing gets me ready to start the working day. The secret to cycling in the winter is about getting the clothing right. Staying dry and warm is very easy these days and there are some great and affordable brands out there that can help you do this. I always carry this mantra with me when on the road:

“There is no such thing as bad weather, Just bad clothing”

A WWT Blog by Daniel Austin

I’ve lived in London for a number of years and have never struggled to find green,
rich-with-nature spaces to spend a few hours in. There’s Battersea Park, Richmond
Park and Hampstead Heath to name a few. But my favourite place of them all is
London Wetland Centre.

If you can visit during the week it’s a very tranquil place to spend a few hours. With
some patience and my trusty binoculars, on my most recent visit I saw a peregrine
hunting, a snipe and several passerines including a bullfinch and three chiffchaff.

I only got into watching birds quite recently and it’s a surprisingly fulfilling and
relaxing hobby. You can get started with the simplest of bird guides and people are
always impressed when you can identify different bird species when out on a walk.

The London Wetland Centre is a top place to practice your bird ID skills. If you’re
lucky you’ll run into a warden in one of the hides who will quickly track down and
identify all sorts of species for you.

Of course, if you get serious about it and decide you want to start sitting about for
hours in a bird hide waiting to spot a bittern in the reedbed, you’ll need some warm
clothing. Personally I’m usually alright in the winter months with a pair of thermal
leggings, fleece and wind proof outer layer. And there’s always the cafe to retreat to
for a warming drink if you get too chilly!

Kit review: All-in-one Splosh suit for kids

Sometimes we like to ask folk to give our products a test-drive. In this case, it was a test-walk. Mum-of-three Ellen, who runs the well-followed In A Bun Dance blog, was looking for a winter jacket to keep her toddler son warm and dry. She thought the Regatta Splosh suit looked like the very item and so we sent one out for her son, Cormac, to test-walk.

Apparently Cormac, aged two-and-a-half, likes nothing better than jumping in puddles. He also enjoys playing out with his two older brothers and keeping up with them as best he can. However, as Ellen says: "The natural outcome of Cormac's ambition is that he spends much of his time hurtling after his brothers so fast that he ends up face-down, usually somewhere wet, cold and muddy." 

More about the Regatta Splosh suit

On first look Ellen was impressed with the look of the children's Splosh jacket. She says: "The suit is padded but not overly thick. It has a zip from throat down to the bottom of the right leg, elastic at the leg base and wrist, plus a fleece-lined hood. I also like the reflective trims around each sleeve, which can be picked up during darker mornings and evenings by passing car lights. This adds an element of safety to the outfit." 

According to Regatta, the technical detailing includes:

• Waterproof and breathable Isolite 5000 lightweight polyester fabric
• Taped seams
• Thermo-Guard insulation
• Fleece lining to body and hood
• Integral hood
• Reflective trim

How the Splosh all-in-one suit performed

Like many children, Cormac isn't so keen on putting on complicated jackets so Ellen was a little worried about getting Cormac into the all-in-one outfit. "I needn't have been concerned, though," she says. "The Splosh is roomy and the zip isn’t fiddly. He was in it before he knew what was happening."

The test-walk-and-play was on a cold day when Ellen's other kids moaned about being chilly. Cormac did not! Ellen says: "My youngest son seemed to be warm and comfortable even though the temperature was low. Although the suit isn't bulky it still offers lots of warmth and cosiness." 

The ultimate test of the all-in-one Splosh came when Cormac did the inevitable face plant. Ellen says: "Normally Cormac would be soaked through and moany after falling on the wet ground but the Splosh offered great protection. He was dry inside and happy to play on. We're pleased with this outfit and so much so that when he grows out of it we'll be buying Cormac a bigger size up. It would be great if we could get these for the older children, too!"

Have your children tried one of Regatta's jackets for kids or all-in-onesuits for toddlers? If so, tell us what you think.

* Thanks to Cormac for testing our Splosh suit. And to Ellen for taking the pictures.

Could our Christmas kisses be under threat?!

Oh, but what should we do? Wildlife experts are warning that the traditional Christmas kiss beneath a sprig of mistletoe could be a thing of the past – or else an expensive imported luxury good. How so?

For many years, English mistletoe has been disappearing from the landscape, mostly because of a decrease in the number and size of orchards. According to the National Trust, orchards have declined by more than 60% since the 1950s, and by up to 90% in Devon and Kent.

Two years ago, a national campaign was launched to preserve the Christmas shrub but there are still fears that within two decades the pretty white plant will have disappeared from woodland and orchards.

Most of the mistletoe bought for Christmas decorations in the UK comes from cider-producing orchards in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Somerset and Worcestershire. Sadly, though, it seems that age-old mistletoe management and harvesting techniques are being lost.

As well as threatening the Christmas kiss (if you didn't know, people traditionally kiss at Christmas below a sprig of mistletoe), wildlife experts are predicting that species linked to orchards, such as bees, butterflies, moths and dead wood invertebrates, will be hit.

The mistletoe also helps to support wildlife, providing winter food for birds such as the blackcap and mistle thrush. As well as this, mistletoe is a parasitic plant that can kill trees if left unchecked.

Now it’s being suggested that  people will have to rely on more expensive European imports of mistletoe for their Christmas kisses!

Jess Price, of the Sussex Wildlife Trust, is reported as saying: "Although we don't want to stop Christmas kisses, we want people to appreciate mistletoe and the threat it faces."

The winter tradition of mistletoe

Mistletoe has long been associated with Christmas and mid-winter customs. It is believed to date back to pre-historic times when it was used as a symbol of on-going life during the winter months. A project was started in 2007 by the National Trust and Natural England to help reverse the loss of the habitat by restoring traditional orchards, supporting small cottage industries producing cider and juices and promoting the growth of community-run orchards.

A National Trust spokesman said: "Orchards remain a key area of work for the trust and mistletoe is a major part of their story and history. Across England, orchards have disappeared, so mistletoe has dwindled. It's important that we support this plant for wildlife reasons.

"It needs to be harvested or will kill off trees, and to support local farmers who sell mistletoe and to maintain this Christmas tradition."

Grow your own mistletoe

Another key message is that we can all grow our own mistletoe. There are a range of places to buy mistletoe berries or harvest your own in February from a friend's plant.

You'll need a lot of berries to be sure of success and be warned, mistletoe grows very slowly in the first four years so it'll be some time before you get a significant plant. Once it's well-established, however, it grows very quickly.

Choosing a place ot grow your mistletoe is important. European Mistletoe most likes apple trees, then poplars, limes, false acacia and hawthorn. It doesn't do well on plums, cherries or pears. And remember that mistletoe is a parasite and will affect the growth of the branch it is on, so don't plant up every branch of a tree.

Find out more about mistletoe and growing your own at the Mistletoe information site.

A WWT Blog by Isabelle Lyne

I’m Isabelle, I’m 14 years old, and I have loved coming to WWT ever since I can remember. My last visit, in summer 2011, was especially wonderful. I have always been in awe of the vast variety of birds you can see here, in the wonderful landscape that WWT provide. Every path you take leads to a new discovery, and you are always guaranteed to view some of the most stunning sights that nature can offer.

I recently visited Arundel on an exceptionally rainy day; however the weather cannot deter me or the birds from an amazing visit. I would recommend wearing a waterproof jacket and walking boots, which Regatta sell at affordable prices. The wet weather could not dampen our spirits, as the bird watching huts dotted around the lakes and bushes gave us a rare opportunity to recognise and learn about birds we’d never even seen before.

I especially enjoyed feeding the ducks with grains, which I am sure children and adults of all ages will also find entertaining. The staff gave us a memorable boat trip around a stream, and we were filled in with a variety of interesting facts, and even spotted a water vole! The staff at WWT are always there for fascinating facts about the creatures you love, and are working hard to save them. I saw birds of all colours, shapes and sizes and after an amazing day out, settled down for a drink in the comfortable WWT café. Thoroughly recommended!

 

Dreaming of a white Christmas?

Who is dreaming of a white Christmas? So many of us will be keeping out fingers crossed for a sprinkling of the white stuff outside our windows as we wake up on Christmas Day. While snow can bring with it poor roads conditions, it is also the stuff of traditional Christmas cards and festive dreams. 

A number of weather websites have been discussing the white Christmas debate for 2011. At Net Weather TV there is a lovely Santa Snow Dome that you can check for the chances of snow in your area this Christmas. Although it's probably too early to predict, the snow dome does offer an indication of snow in various areas of the UK.  With a 40% chance of snow are, unsurprisingly, Scotland and Northern Ireland. As the weather chart goes further south the chance of snow decreases.

At the Met Office they are up for discussion rather than predictions, with almost two weeks to go until Christmas Day. The analysis and stats make for interesting reading.

Apparently Christmas Day is actually a bit early for snow. It's right at the start of the period when the UK is traditionally likely to see much of the white stuff. Looking at climate history, wintry weather is more likely between January and March than in the month of December.

White Christmases have also been historically more frequent in the 18th and 19th centuries. And even more so since 1752 when the calendar was changed to effectively bring back the date of Christmas by 12 days. (That's one way to beat the bookies on a White Christmas!)

Climate change has meant higher temperatures year-round and so the forecasts are for a lesser chance of snow on Christmas Day. But this doesn't mean there will not be snow on Christmas Day in the future.

It depends how you define a White Christmas

For Christmas Day to be officially white there needs to be a single snowflake observed falling in the 24 hours of December 25 at a specified location. For the rest of us, a white Christmas is lots of snow on the ground. 

Take a look at the last 51 years

There has only been a widespread covering of snow on the ground (where more than 40% of stations in the UK reported snow on the ground at 9am) four times in the last 51 years. But there has been a snowflake recording on Christmas day 38 times in the last 51 years. That's more than half of Christmases in the last five decades.

Indeed, we had a white Christmas last year and the year before. In 2010, there was snow on the ground at 83% of stations (the highest amount ever recorded) and snow or sleet actually fell at 19% of stations.

In 2009, 13% of stations recorded snow or sleet falling on Christmas Day, and 57% reported snow on the ground.

Make sure you're prepared for Christmas snow 

It might not snow, but then again it might. And even if it doesn't snow it will be cold. So make sure you're prepared for winter with a range of warm outdoor clothing. The basics include a warm and waterproof jacket, winter boots, warm gloves, hats and socks. A pair of waterproof trousers could also be a bonus.

If you're traveling in your car, pop a spare set of warm clothes in the boot in case of emergency. If you have children, it is a good idea to check that the whole family has a full wardrobe of winter clothing. After all, it does snow in the Christmas holidays you'll all want to get outdoors for some snow-time fun. Remember that it's snow fun to be cold outdoors. 

A Visit to Slimbridge

One day during September my wife and I visited Slimbridge and for the
first time we brought Harry our 2 year old Grandson. When we arrived and
walked up the entrance ramp we were able to see one of the wardens feeding
the swans in the distance, so I lifted Harry up to see which promoted much
excitement from him, however what he didn’t realise was that he was about to
get closer and feed these birds himself.

We went through the entrance, bought some food and went out of the
door to the boardwalks. When we stood him on the bench, he watched in total
wonderment at the myriad of Swans, ducks and geese swimming on the lake.
This wonderment turned to squeals of delight as the birds flocked towards us
for food that was by now liberally being dropped for them. His enthusiasm
didn’t wane as we gradually led him through geese, and ducks to the
Wellyboot land, followed by a visit to the Otters. When the otters saw Harry ,
they immediately dived into the water to swim under the board walk beneath
his feet, only to reappear, with one of them doing the back stroke as though to
say look at me. Harry was fascinated and followed them round to their sunny
rock position where they duly entertained him for a while.

We finished off with a well earned cup of tea and cake in the restaurant,
before heading home.

Reasons to go outdoors in winter

It can be tempting to imagine that hibernation would be perfect in winter. But spending time outdoors in winter has the same many benefits as being outdoors in summer. And if you choose to stay cooped up indoors there is a high chance of grumpiness, family fall outs and a dose of winter blues. All you need are a few items of outdoor clothing for warmth and keeping you dry, a pair of waterproof walking boots or wellingtons, and a bit of get up and go.

Great ideas for outdoors winter motivation

Go wild: Winter is a superb time for spotting a wide range of bird and wildlife in the UK. Head to an RSPB event, such as a Robins and Reindeer walk at Upton Country Park in Poole on December 4. Or how about looking out for puffins on a guided coastal walk at South Stack Cliffs in Anglesey on December 20? Meet Santa and find out about reindeer at Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, Glemore, Aviemore, the home of Britain’s only herd of reindeer. See www.cairngormreindeer.co.uk

Winter magic: How about trying lantern making, followed by a lantern-lit story walk, at the Forestry Commission's Whinlatter Forest in Cumbria, where there will be a host of celebrations for International Mountain Day on December 11? Or go in search of Santa and his Elves at the stunningly located CairnGorm Mountain near Aviemore, in the Scottish Highlands, on dates throughout December. The whole family will love the ride on the funicular railway to the restaurant and shop "at the top".

Walk in winter: Here are some great winter walks to choose from:

* From December 24 to January 2, walkers are invited to join the Ramblers for their Festival of Winter Walks. There is even a section for under-fives and beginner walkers this year. See www.ramblers.org.uk

* Winter Solstice Saunter with the National Trust at Gibside, near Durham. An walking adventure after dark. Followed by a warm-up treat of mulled wine and mince pies. Who can resist? More Information: Gibside, 01207 541820,gibside@nationaltrust.org.uk

Family Christmas: A magical Christmas family event is being held to raise vital funds for Naomi House and jacksplace@naomihouse, hospices that provide care and support to life-limited children, young adults and their families. A Christmas Bauble Hunt will be held on Sunday Decmber 11 at The Vyne, near Swindon. Lots of fun and physical activity for all the family. More Information: Jules Fuller on tel: 01256 883858 or email jules.fuller@nationaltrust.org.uk 

And more:

* Be prepared for a host of family activities including fire-making, scrambling, abseiling and snowshoeing at the Roman Winter Adventure Day at Hadrian's Wall and Housesteads Fort, Hexham. This takes place on December 10. For price information and further details see nationaltrust.org.uk/hadrianswall.

* Rudolph's Christmas Trail takes place until Sunday December 11 at Culzean Castle & Country Park, Ayrshire.  This is a festive treat for all the family.

* For something really different head along to the Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre, Rutland, for a Christmas family coppice event. Bring all the family and help carry out traditional coppicing in an ancient wood, and work off all those Christmas calories. 10am on Wednesday December 28.

If you want to tell us about outdoor Christmas events please do comment or email and if they are suitable we will post further information.

Your favourite winter walk

We want to find out about your favourite winter walk. While this is the season for chillier weather, it is also a time that so often reveals fantastic winter scenery and great adventures. Perhaps your favourite winter walk is one that takes in a frost or snow-covered landscape. Maybe you like a winter walk because of the mud and puddles. If so, tell us where the walk is so that others can enjoy the fun of jumping in puddles and squishing through mud (dressed in appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear obviously!).

A walk beneath a blue sky on a wind-swept day can bring the senses alive, so long as you're wrapped up warm in fleeces, waterproof jackets, hats and gloves. And while a winter walk in the rain might seem like a bad idea if you're dressed for the occasion it could present a new outdoors adventure of its own. Even if it's wet on the outside, if you're warm and dry on the inside walking in the rain can actually be a spirit-lifting experience.

In the early morning, walking amid mist or before a cracking sunrise is the stuff of fabulous memories. Or how about a walk beneath a star-strewn sky on a cold but cloud-free winter's evening? 

Take care while winter walking

Walking in winter does, of course, come with a number of warnings. It's vital that you are prepared for the wintry conditions and only walk where you know you're experienced enough to navigate. Winter weather can change very quickly and if you were to be caught amid swirling mist, you should know how to use a map and compass to navigate yourself to safety.

Sticking to lower-level routes is a good idea, but even then a thick fog can leave walkers feeling disorientated and lost.

Make sure you pack winter essentials into your rucksack wherever you walk this winter. These include extra clothing layers, spare gloves and hat, over-trousers, a head torch, a map and compass, a GPS (if you have one), a mobile phone (although you can't rely on getting a signal), food and drink.

Even if you're only out for a two-mile stroll with your family it is important to be prepared for all weathers and all situations. 

If you're planning to walk higher in the hills or mountains it's worth considering a winters skills course. Check out the winter skills courses in Scotland, for example, which are great if you want to be able to head into snow covered mountains. One instructor said: "These courses are becoming increasingly popular as more people look to take on a winter walking or climbing adventure in the mountains. We cover such skills as navigation, using an ice axe and crampons, digging out a snow hole and avalanche awareness."

HIgh or low, here are a few of our favourite winter walks

Old Harry's Rocks, Dorset (6km)

Lawrenny Circular Walk, Pembrokeshire (4.5km)

Rhossili Bay Coastal Walk, Swansea (8km)

The Weald of Kent

Cherwell Valley Circular Walk, Oxford

Ben Cleuch Circular, Stirlingshire.

And how about you? Where do you like to walk in winter snow or frost? Do you have a favourite winter landscape or view? We would love to find out more about your top winter walks.