Introduction to UK Survivalist

As I write this on May 9th 2010 the United Kingdom is without a solid government, there is rioting on the street of Greece and flights are again being cancelled due to an Icelandic volcano. A reminder, if any were needed, that we live in changing times and the need to be ready to take care of oneself and ones loved ones is just as important as ever.

I've been an active reader and occasional commentator on on-line survivalist forums for a few years but am only now taking the leap into writing my own pieces. My perception is the on-line survivalist community seems to be heavily focused on the US and often sticks to the “beans, bullets in the boonies” themes.

As a native of the UK I don't really have any of those options open to me. 'Bugging out” to the wilderness isn't an option on this tiny island as we have little in the way of wilderness, as for bullets.....well I'm sure the UK's gun control laws will fill a long post of their own shortly. I want to write for people like me who follow a shared belief in self reliance but live this side of the Atlantic. I hope in time some of you will also comment here.

I live in London, both the greatest city on earth and the worst place for a survivalist. I have a very small back garden so expect my experiences of food cultivation to focus of just what is possible in a small space. Also expect some commentary on urban survival skills.

I came to this community as I believe in gaining life skills and where possibly relying on oneself before trusting the state. The following posts will veer wildly between tips and hints from my own on going experiences to general postings on being a modern survivalist in the UK no doubt touching on politics along the way.

Before I continue I'd like to make the following clear.

What I am

• A City boy. I've lived in cities most of my life and now live in London. When I said bugging out wasn't an option I'm not kidding.

• A geek. In all senses of the word. IT is how I make my living, but my interest in basically everything puts me very strongly in the geek category.

• Interested in politics.... not party political, but I do hold certain views that may creep in from time to time.

• Not an expert. I'm pretty well schooled in some stuff, but a bumbling amateur in far more. Take all advice with a pinch of salt.

• English... colour, favourite etc etc etc.

What I'm not

• Mad, at least I hope not.
• Racist
• Religious, don't mind if you are, just keep it away from me unless asked.
• A 'rural' survivalist. Seriously, you don't want to be lost in the woods with me.