Sidmouth College students have passed one of their toughest training tests as they enter the final stages of preparation for May’s Ten Tors event.

The annual Sidmouth College Exmoor Challenge saw them walking 35 or 45 miles, scaling the heights of Exmoor’s highest point, Dunkery Beacon, sleeping under canvas and applying survival and navigation skills.

Thirty-five students and 10 staff took part in what was one of the final events before the school’s teams are selected for the Ten Tors endurance event on Dartmoor.

PE teacher Ben Williams, 26, who is the school’s Ten Tors coordinator, reported that the great weather ensured the pupils had enjoyed the weekend – despite having to carry bags as heavy as themselves and despite one of them plunging into a bog up to his knees.