After a busy morning locating and tasting the (edible) White Dead nettle, students were ready for sweeter refreshments.

Staff and students were equipped with a magnesium rod and striker, plus several dry, brittle mushrooms. Everyone wanted the kudos of being a ‘survival specialist’ and the race was on to ignite the flammable fungus, otherwise known as ‘King Alfred’s Cakes’.

Whilst the staff were first to create a glowing ember within one of the ‘cakes’, students soon caught up, igniting more ‘cakes’ than staff. Soon, a roaring fire was heating a kettle, and everyone enjoyed their toasted marshmallows and hot chocolate.