A few months ago, two of our members (BCC) were preparing to enter Ogof Draenen (the original entrance 8) ) when they fell into conversation with some members of Gwent Mountaineering Club. The GMC members mentioned how they often come across holes in the ground as they wander over the South Wales mountains and moors and wondered what is to be found in them. They then asked if it would be possible for us to give a talk on the South Wales caves to which they replied, "Yes of course, and we know just who you should talk to." So it was that I received an email on the possibility of a talk and I could hardly say no.
So last night saw me in front of an audience of over 30 GMC members giving a whistle-stop West-to-East tour of the Major South Wales caves with lots of photos that myself and Huge have taken as well as some that Brendan from ogof.org.uk kindly gave me permission to use to fill in our gaps. I finished up with a video that Andy and Antonia had also kindly given me permission to use.
One small glitch was when the video started I realised what it was I'd forgotten: speakers! My laptop speaker wasn't powerful enough to fill the hall so I had to provide an unrehearsed voice over to it (sorry Andy and Antonia, your's is so much better).
The whole thing was very warmly received (I got a big round of applause ) with a lot of interest generated (if the 20 minutes of questions that followed is anything to go by) and some very kind comments on the photos and video.
I must say, I did enjoy myself, it is great to present something you are passionate about to an interested and receptive audience.
Of course, many thanks to Brendan and Andy and Antonia for letting me include their work. I pointed everyone to your on-line content so hopefully it will drive some interest your way.
So last night saw me in front of an audience of over 30 GMC members giving a whistle-stop West-to-East tour of the Major South Wales caves with lots of photos that myself and Huge have taken as well as some that Brendan from ogof.org.uk kindly gave me permission to use to fill in our gaps. I finished up with a video that Andy and Antonia had also kindly given me permission to use.
One small glitch was when the video started I realised what it was I'd forgotten: speakers! My laptop speaker wasn't powerful enough to fill the hall so I had to provide an unrehearsed voice over to it (sorry Andy and Antonia, your's is so much better).
The whole thing was very warmly received (I got a big round of applause ) with a lot of interest generated (if the 20 minutes of questions that followed is anything to go by) and some very kind comments on the photos and video.
I must say, I did enjoy myself, it is great to present something you are passionate about to an interested and receptive audience.
Of course, many thanks to Brendan and Andy and Antonia for letting me include their work. I pointed everyone to your on-line content so hopefully it will drive some interest your way.