For Hitch 2012, Link will again be operating a state-of-the-art tracking system so that you monitor the progress of every Hitch group online.

How the system works

Each Hitch group must check in by 4pm every day - if they don't, they will receive a text alert and then a phone call from a member of the Events Team.

The Hitch group sends a text message in a special format and this is instantly displayed on the online tracking system.

The system reads the group's location from the text message and displays a marker with their message on a map. All the markers are joined together to show the Hitch group's progress since they set off.

Anybody can search for a Hitch group either by a Hitcher's name or by their group number and view their progress and latest messages online.

The tracking system that will be used for Hitch 2012 will be available for preview approximately two weeks before the Hitch.


Checking in procedure for Hitch groups

1. Each Hitch Group must contact Textline or Hotline to confirm they are starting their Hitch, and also as they leave the UK. 

2. The group must then text the Textline or phone the Hotline every day before 4pm UK time – even on the first day if they have already contacted Link to say they are setting off. 

3. On arrival at their destination, they must text the Textline or phone the Hotline AND their Nominated Contact to report the end of their Hitch. 

4. Finally, they must text the Textline or phone the Hitch Hotline upon arrival back in the UK.

Please note that Hitchers are not required to stay in contact with Link while they are on holiday in Morocco or Prague. If you want your Hitcher to stay in touch with you while in Morocco, please make these arrangements with the Hitcher prior to departure.