AN investigation into a school trip where seven pupils and a teacher ended up in the River Tamar after their canoes capsized has concluded that children should receive more training and staff should carry walkie talkie radios. The report was compiled by outdoor education adviser Frank Perry after the canoeing incident at Morwellham on February 15. The trip was arranged by Delaware Outdoor Education Centre and involved pupils and teacher from Liskeard Junior School. Mr Perry said the pupils concerned showed fortitude in the face of the drama that unfolded before them: ?Whilst some of them were wet and cold and some separated from their fellow pupils and teachers, all reports suggest they were brave in dealing with all that was asked of them, as well as following every instruction given to them accurately and without question.? He also praised the school staff and instructors who acted in an ?exemplary manner, dealing with the incident in a calm and professional way.? The ?trailblazer venture? for 11 Year 6 pupils and three teachers began at Morwellham Quay, setting off down the river towards Cotehele Quay. River levels had been low in the preceding weeks but overnight rain had resulted in the river flowing at a reported swift walking pace at the launch site. The report continued: ?The Delaware staff were clear that this journey had been undertaken without incident many times in the past with groups of similar experience and in similar weather and river conditions.? Very quickly after the start of the journey three of the canoes capsized, tipping seven of the pupils and one teacher in the water. All were landed safely, changed into dry clothing, given hot drinks, food and shelter. Staff at Morwellham provided support and called the emergency services. No-one was hurt and all pupils were discharged from Derriford Hospital that afternoon after a check-up. Lessons to be learnt included better communications as phone reception in the river valley was poor. The report suggested an investigation into other devices such as walkie talkies. It also suggested a second session of training on a larger lake where pupils could develop their skills and confidence. The report also recommended a greater involvement of teachers in the decision-making process as they had specific knowledge of any pupil?s limitations and the use of buoyancy aids.