Heavy rain disrupts Ten Tors plans

Heavy rain expected to cause issues for the organisers of this weekend’s Ten Tors challenge.

As a result of the recent rain, concerns have been raised over the state of several car parks near the starting line in Okehampton, making them unavailable for spectator’s vehicles.

With spectators and the family members of more than 2,400 young people taking  part in challenge hoping to support the teams at the starting line, the limited car parking is likely to be significant disruption.

Brigadier Piers Hankinson, the Director of Ten Tors said this morning: “I have conducted a further assessment of the condition of the car parks.  Unfortunately the state of the ground has deteriorated severely as a result of the poor weather conditions today.

“While I am still content that I will be able to get all team vehicles into the car park, the condition of the ground has made it impossible for us to accept spectators’ cars on Saturday.  Only team vehicles will be admitted into Okehampton Camp.   I have arranged for a Park and Ride system to be operated from Okehampton College at a cost of £2 per head return to partly offset bus hire costs. 

“Be aware that the parking is very limited at 200 cars.  Please consider the lack of available parking when planning your journeys and share vehicles where possible.  I will reassess the situation at midday on Friday for car parking options on Sunday.”

The weather is expected to remain unsettled for much of the weekend with thunderstorms likely to form on Saturday afternoon but is unlikely to severly affect the challenge.

In a special Ten Tors weather forecast, Bob Wilderspin, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, said:  “Fortunately on Friday it’s reasonably settled with a brief respite in the weather, so setting up camp for the Friday night should be fairly straightforward.”

Overnight into Saturday heavy rain and strong winds are expected to take hold but should clear briefly on Saturday morning.

Bob Wilderspin continued: “Showers [will start] spreading in around Saturday afternoon- these showers could be quire heavy with a risk of hail as well and a rumble of thunder or two with strong winds that will feel fairly uncomfortable for walking.

“The showery and breezy conditions continue overnight and into Sunday, so for camping overnight that will be a bit of a challenge. Staying dry and keeping reasonably warm will be the main issues for the hikers.
“Sunday itself should be a showery day but with sunny patches throughout.”