Andy Torbet and friends embark on an expeditionary snorkel in the Shropshire Hills, just in time for the early spring chill to descend
TORBET ON THE TUBE
Cold comfort
Andy Torbet and friends embark on an expeditionary snorkel in the Shropshire Hills, just in time for the early spring chill to descend
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A rapid towelling-off was in order after a chilly dip
Reservoirs are usually off limits. As are the tempting, often landscaped lakes, ponds and rivers of The National Trust. However, on a recent trip to Shropshire, and after trawling the Wild Swimming websites, I discovered Carding Mill Valley Reservoir.
Nestled high up in the Shropshire Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty since 1958, this small, sheltered pool is reached by a half hour climb among the common lands of The Long Mynd. The approach is interspersed with interpretation boards about the landscape, its history and wildlife. And I confess to being a sucker for an information panel.
The sky was blue, spattered with cloud and the sun shone down as I reached the wooded bowl that held the reservoir. But an icy north wind blew through the valley and across the dark waters and I began to regret my choice of equipment. I had decided to brave the waters with just a 3mm suit, no gloves, no hood. This was to