Herald reporter Sarah Dale reports live from the Great Wall of China – day one

GREAT is something of an understatement when describing the Great Wall of China, where 52 people are currently undertaking the challenge of a lifetime to raise money for St Barnabas House’s new hospice.

The Dream Team arrived in China yesterday (Sunday, October 3) and since then they have climbed thousands of steps, seen endless awe-inspiring sights and acclimatised to the Chinese way of life.

The Worthing Herald’s senior reporter, Sarah Dale, is among the trekkers and has sent this report back to the newsroom.

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“The Great Wall is nothing less than spectacular. Since we arrived in China I think the whole group has been surprised at just how beautiful this country is.

“The wall literally stretches as far as the eye can see, with perilously sloping walkways snaking through the countryside and numerous watchtowers which make the perfect place to stop for photographs.

“After arriving on Sunday, we spent our first night in a Best Western hotel in Beijing and were taken for dinner at a nearby restaurant where we sampled our first truly authentic, and very delicious, Chinese meal.

“Sloane Vaughan, St Barnabas Hospice fund-raising manager, lit a candle during the meal to symbolise the reason so many of the team are doing this challenge – to remember those who have passed away and were cared for by St Barnabas.

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“On Monday, we left early to transfer to Huangyaguan where we caught our first glimpse of the wall. Once we were kitted out with our trekking boots and walking poles, and after some warm-up stretches, it was time to take our first steps on one of the wonders of the world.

“But no photographs the Dream Team took could ever take would do this wonder justice - it is a place you have to see to appreciate - everyone has made time to stop along the wall and just absorb the stunning views surrounding us.

“We are supported during the challenge by our leaders, Steph and Terri, from Global Adventure Challenges, and Tony and Michael who are Chinese and are experts when it comes to the Great Wall.

“They told us the wall was created following the unification of China under Qin Shi Huangdi, in about 221 to 220 BC. But despite the impressive battlements, the wall proved ineffective and was breached in the 13th century by the Mongols, and then again in the 17th century by the Manchus.

“Today, only some sections of the crumbling remains have been fully restored, making some parts quite difficult to navigate along.”

There will be more updates of the Dream Team’s progress soon.

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