July 11, 2008 - Ormskirk School/Warwick

We had a surprise addition to our itinerary. We had the opportunity to visit a British school this morning. We went to Ormskirk School, which had students ranging in age from 11 to 18. It's a relatively new school, with a strong focus on technology.

We had a short lesson in cricket and had the chance to play a modified game. We also had a tour of the extensive building. The school has about 1400 students, and they were all excited to talk with Americans. Our kids were treated like celebrities with everyone asking for their autographs.

Before we left we were treated to a musical presentation by some of the students while we ate strawberries and cream.

It took over three hours to get to Warwick. It was quite a distance away and we hit the Friday night traffic.

As soon as we got to the castle the delegates were "inducted" into the army and given a tent. After dinner they learned about the strength and versitility of the longbow. They learned how to battle with bills and how to protect themselves with swords.

The high point of the evening was the firing of the trebuchet. It is the largest one still in operation, and they shot a flaming ball of ammunition over 150 yards. What a show!

Then we were off to bed in our tents. I'm happy to say that they moved the tents across the stream, so they were a little closer to the restrooms. But it's still a tent with cots, and it's none too warm tonight.