Day 3

On the morning of day 3, we set out to do a beach clean on the local Brodick beach in front of our lodge. Before we set out, we completed a group risk assessment covering the main hazards within the categories of environmental, human, wildlife and rubbish. Once we geared up in our waterproofs - ready for the temperamental Scottish weather. We paired up, grabbed a litter picker and plastic bag and then set off. On reaching our start point further down the beach, we started searching for litter between the high tide mark and the gorse bushes at the back of the beach.

We found an array of litter including: crates, plastic bottles, tent poles and wipes. Overall, it was a very enlightening experience as it helped us to understand the importance of appropriate waster disposal and the impacts on the environment. After we disposed of the waste we also looked at a marine litter picking survey form and considered the range of waste that can be found on beaches - of which we found half of.

Later on in the afternoon, we went on a discovery walk around the grounds of Brodick castle. We found a variety of plants including: hydrangeas, redwood trees, rhododendrons, yellow rattle flowers, beech trees, pine trees and star moss. Although we couldn't enter the castle, as it was undergoing refurbishment, we found out the oldest parts of the castle date back to the 13th century. Whereas, the visible exterior was built in the Victorian era when the Hamiltons lived there.