🚧 Barry Huston
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Barry Huston - Moray Sea School, Burghead Scotland, 1968

Cochrane-Watch-photo
Course M183. October/November 1968

Recently looked at my Log book and photos, which have been in the loft for over 30 years, and fond memories came flooding back: Mr Brettell's apparent sadistic delight in the physical training and cold showers; the rugged beauty of the Cairngorms; the comradeship and companionship in adversity; the smell of whiskey wafting across the bay as we sailed the cutters out of the harbour; the four day expedition, and the final night's concert. So many highlights.

So many great instructors. Imagine the excitement and adventure for a callow 17 year old (who had never been further than their own county) travelling by overnight sleeper from Liverpool to Elgin in Scotland- on their own! Every activity on the course was a challenge; from rock climbing, map reading, camping - even manning the lifeboat - we were tested to our limits. The satisfaction in overcoming these challenges was immense and increased my confidence greatly.

There is no doubt in my mind that the month I spent at Burghead helped shape the man I became, and I am grateful to my former employer Joseph Rank Ltd (Rank Hovis McDougal) for sending me on the course.

Barry Huston