Rob Caskie delighted hundreds with his tales of "Going South with Scott and Shackleton" in Hexham yesterday. He spoke for over an hour without a note, yet all of us present would happily have listened for a further hour so fascinating was his tales of heroism, endeavour, comradeship and bravery. He started with Scott and his doomed journey to the south pole - highlighting the fateful decision to take 5 not 4 men on the long push south, and the toughness of these men who died on a march of incredible distance and difficulty. Then on to Shackleton, whose legendary expedition with the ships the Endeavour, and then the lifeboat the James Caird, on a journey from the Antartic to South Georgia defy belief for their standards of seamanship, fortitude and courage. Whilst talking of the heroism of these men we forgot that Rob was doing it all without a single note. He is an epic storyteller. If you have not listened to him talk on his British tour there is still time. Check out his website here:
http://www.robcaskie.com/
As for last night my thanks to the sponsors, Armstrong Watson, Ward Haddaway, and Youngs RPS. Most of all our thanks and support to Tynedale Hospice at Home. To all of the volunteers - many of whom I chatted to - and the staff, and Brian of course, who make such a difference at such a difficult time. This is a wonderful charity that I am proud to have supported in the past and will do so in the future. Our hope is to get Rob to return next year and talk about Rorkes Drift. I have heard him do this and amazingly it is even better than last night! But for now if you want moe info about Shackleton, the unsung legend, have a read here:
http://www.jmcomputers.f2s.com/Shackleton.htm
If you have not read it - the famous Advert for Shackletons men is worth a read.
