16 Feb Wildlife cameraman and presenter Hamza Yassin pledges to inspire more people to enjoy camping and the incredible outdoors
Wildlife cameraman, author and TV presenter Hamza Yassin has launched a pledge to inspire as many people as possible to experience and enjoy the incredible outdoors.
Hamza was recently appointed the President of the Camping and Caravanning Club and he’s excited about sharing his passion with people of all ages and backgrounds to actively enjoy – and help look after – the natural world.
As part of his pledge, he will be hosting a camping event in May to encourage families across the UK to try the pastime, embrace the outdoors, while learning about nature and the positive impact it can have on physical and mental wellbeing.
Hamza said: “I’m really excited about my first year as the Club’s President because camping is one of the best ways to experience the outdoors. I’m lucky enough to travel the world and film incredible animals for people to see on their TVs. I love the joy and wonder people, and especially children, express when they see wildlife they’ve never seen before. Sharing those experiences is so important for me.”
Hamza will host the free camping event at Blackmore Club Site in Worcestershire, inviting first-time campers to come and give it a go for themselves. The event, taking place from 28-30 May 2024, will teach people of all ages outdoor skills that will help them enjoy their time outdoors, including nature spotting and pitching a tent. Hamza will be joining the fun on Wednesday, May 29.
Hamza added: “Tent camping, caravanning and motorhoming really does put you on the doorstep of the countryside and is the best way to experience the outdoors and connect with nature – and it’s good for us too.
“It’s so important we look after our natural world and allow the next generation to see its beauty – it’s my focus, whether through my TV presenting work, my books, documentaries or talks, and now in my role as the Club’s President.”
To register interest in the event, visit www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/competitions/camping-with-hamza/ Spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so best register early to avoid disappointment. Participants will need to tell us why they’re passionate about spending more time outdoors.
Here’s Hamza’s top camping tips:
Go to bed when it gets dark and wake up naturally in the morning when the tent gets light. Children are more relaxed outside and take time to enjoy the small things.
Get up at sunrise as often as possible – the best way of doing that is in a campervan or tent. I love yomping across Scotland, with a tent on my back, good boots and a good stick. I make the most of the freedom to roam.
Think about where you pitch your tent. Use the compass on your smartphone and pitch up with the door facing east. That way you’ll catch the morning rays and feel the warmth on your skin as you soon as you step outside.
When buying equipment, think about how your camping kit can help keep gear like clothing, shoes and boots dry. If you’re camping in a tent, consider one with a good porch and plenty of space to hang things out.
Leave nothing behind except the imprint of your tent. Take rubbish with you, be quiet and respectful of wildlife, and leave nature as you found it.
