{"id":43,"date":"2008-11-27T17:45:29","date_gmt":"2008-11-27T17:45:29","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/?p=43"},"modified":"2012-10-13T13:11:08","modified_gmt":"2012-10-13T13:11:08","slug":"newsletter-26-may-2008","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/?p=43","title":{"rendered":"Newsletter 26 – May 2008"},"content":{"rendered":"

NUNEATON MOUNTAINEERING CLUB<\/strong><\/p>\n

NEWSLETTER 26\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 May 2008<\/strong><\/p>\n

Website http:\/\/www.nunmc.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n

Edited by Colin Green<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

PROGRAMME\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 APRIL – AUGUST 2008\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Matt <\/span><\/p>\n

May 3rd<\/sup>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Keith H’s Birmingham Balti Night Special.<\/p>\n

May 10th \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Peak District. Wildboar Clough with Keith and Michele.<\/p>\n

May 8th<\/sup> – 12th\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Backpacking to the Glen Carron area of the Scottish Highlands. See David or Matt<\/p>\n

May 10th for 2 weeks ish\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Scottish Highlands. Isle of Skye. Stay for a week or more. See Colin or Ann.<\/p>\n

May 23rd<\/sup>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 4-5 days\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Canoeing with Andrew, Nick and Mark in south Wales.<\/p>\n

June 21st – 22nd \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 North Wales. Midsummer Madness camping & BBQ with Debra near to Dolgellau.<\/p>\n

July\u00a0 12th – 13th\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 SouthWales.\u00a0 Camping with Matt in the Black Mountain area. (NOT<\/span> BLACK MTS)<\/p>\n

Aug 9th – 10th \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Exmoor. Camping in the Doone valley. See Michele<\/p>\n

November 14th<\/sup> – 16th<\/sup>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tarn Outdoor Centre, Howgills\/Yorkshire Dales for another Novemberfest.<\/p>\n

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Other Events – all welcome!<\/p>\n

Sept date TBA \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Poland High Tatra mountains. See Eileen if interested.<\/p>\n

Summer\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Anyone interested in doing the coast to coast? See Ann.<\/p>\n

And there’s much more than this going on.\u00a0 Visit us on a Thursday evening from 8.30pm at Attleborough Liberal Club, Bull Street for impromptu activities, or ring Andrew on 01827\u00a0 717 648<\/span> <\/strong>or Matt on\u00a0 024 76 758 322<\/span><\/strong> if you can’t get down. And don’t forget our website at http:\/\/www.nunmc.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n

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PRICING POLOCY\u00a0 Eileen (Treasurer)<\/span><\/p>\n

The pricing policy for residential events introduced by Matt at last years AGM seems to be working well.<\/p>\n

The Novemberfest at the Eagle Bunkhouse made a small profit of \u00a316.40 with 18 members paying \u00a335.00\u00a0 plus one \u00a310 deposit covered both the accommodation cost of \u00a3560 and the evening meal.<\/p>\n

The Corran Bunkhouse (Scotland) in February broke even with 12 members paying \u00a356 per person covered the \u00a3672.00 cost of the accommodation.<\/p>\n

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SOCIAL ACTIVITIES\u00a0 Michele<\/span><\/p>\n

There is a charity night out on Friday May 2nd.\u00a0 It is an Abba tribute\u00a0 by Abba Revolution and Elvis will also be appearing!\u00a0 It takes place at the ‘Piv’, Stockingford, Nuneaton.\u00a0 Tickets are \u00a37 and it’s all in aid of the Mary Ann Evans Hospice.
\nLet me know if you can come and join the fun as well as helping a good cause.<\/p>\n

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BALTI NIGHT\u00a0 Saturday 3rd<\/sup> May\u00a0 Keith H\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n

Keith \u00a0has suggested having a “Balti Night” in Birmingham. \u00a0He is going to look into Balti Houses and report back. \u00a0In the meantime can anyone interested in principle let Matt or Eileen know so it can be passed \u00a0on to Keith.<\/p>\n

LATEST – Saturday 3rd<\/sup> May location TBA.<\/strong><\/p>\n

GLEN CARRON BACKPACKING\u00a0 8th<\/sup> – 12th<\/sup> May\u00a0 Matt<\/span>
\nMatt, David and Ian have booked on to the overnight sleeper train from Nuneaton to Achnashellach arriving at approx 10:30am \u00a0on 08\/05\/08. \u00a0Anyone who requires train details please contact Matt. \u00a0If you are intending to go by car the hotel one stop down the line will provide a convenient parking and meeting place.\u00a0 Again contact Matt for details.<\/p>\n

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CANOEING TRIP\u00a0 May 23rd<\/sup> ish Andrew<\/span>
\n<\/span>Mark, Nick and I are thinking of going to south-west Wales canoeing for about 4 or 5 days, starting on or about May 23rd. \u00a0We might camp or take a bunk house. \u00a0There are a numbers of good rivers in the area, including the Eastern and Western Cleddau. \u00a0It would also tie in with walking part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.<\/p>\n

All welcome. \u00a0If you are interested, please let Andrew, Mark or Nick know ASAP, even if you can’t commit yourself at this stage.<\/p>\n

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POLAND\u00a0 26th<\/sup> August – 4th<\/sup> September 2008\u00a0\u00a0 Eileen Walsh\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n

The Poland trip is now all set to go and our basic plan is as follows:-<\/p>\n

Seven of us have signed up to go, myself, Keith H, Les, Richard and wife Rita, Ann and Nick.\u00a0 We will be arriving in Krakow at about lunchtime on the 26th August and stopping in the city for a couple of day’s sight seeing, before taking the bus to Zakopane and the Tatra mountains.\u00a0 We will spend 6 nights in Zakopane during which time we will spend time exploring the mountains and may even venture over into Solvakia where I am told the terrain is spectacularly beautiful.<\/p>\n

On the 3rd<\/sup> September we will take the bus back to Krakow for last minute sight seeing and shopping before catching the flight back the next day.\u00a0 The flights with Ryan Air from East Midlands Airport have been booked. (Total cost \u00a371.58 p.p. including baggage and check in fees).\u00a0 Accommodation has been booked on a B&B basis at the Kolory in Krakow and the Adria Pension in Zakopane.\u00a0 Accommodation cost for twin bedded rooms is approximately 50 Euro per room per night. Both B&B’s are in the town\/city centres so handy for shopping, restaurants and bars.<\/p>\n

Details of the accommodation can be obtained on: http:\/\/www.staypoland.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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NOVEMBERFEST 14th <\/sup>-16th<\/sup> Nov. 2008\u00a0 TARN OUTDOOR CENTRE\u00a0 Matt<\/span>
\nWe have booked the Tarn Outdoor Centre in the Howgill Fells for the above weekend. \u00a0We have sole use of the outdoor centre with space for up to 24 people, so friends and family will be welcome on this trip. \u00a0The tarn centre is nicely placed in the Howgills, but near enough for a day out in the Lakes if you feel the need. \u00a0The weekend will follow the usual format with a\u00a0get together on Saturday night; the only difference this time is that I won’t be in the kitchen. (Hooray!) \u00a0This year it’s your turn to shine. \u00a0We will be having a fuddle, as they call it in Leicestershire.\u00a0 You may know it better as an American supper. \u00a0The club will provide the basics i.e. bread, salads and snacks, and then everyone will bring a dish of their choice. \u00a0You can buy it or make it and it could be hot or cold. \u00a0We have very good cooking facilities on site so if you want to show off and do a Prune and Armagnac souffl\u00e9 for 20 people now’s your chance. \u00a0Anyway more on that nearer the day. \u00a0The trip will cost \u00a339.00 per person for the weekend. \u00a0Couples will have a very good chance of getting a twin room as there are a few on offer. \u00a0Have a look at the web site below and I think you will agree it looks pretty good. \u00a0Also have a look at the attached word document it has detailed information on the centre and pubs and restaurants in the area.
\nhttp:\/\/www.tarnoutdoor.co.uk\/<\/a> <http:\/\/www.tarnoutdoor.co.uk\/<\/a>><\/p>\n

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SPICY TOMATO SALSA\u00a0 Chef’s (Matt’s) Special<\/span><\/p>\n

As eaten at the 2007 Novemberfest\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Serves 4<\/strong>
\nFinely chop the following:
\n2 Large Beefsteak Tomatoes (seeds juice and all)
\n1 Medium Red Pepper
\n1 Medium Green Pepper
\n1 Large red onion
\n1 – 3 Fresh green Chilli’s (depending on how hot you like it).
\n1 Small bunch of fresh parsley (Optional but recommended)
\n1 Garlic Clove
\nAdd to this:
\n2 Tbs Extra Virgin Olive oil
\nThe Juice of 1 Lime (or half a lemon)
\nSalt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
\nStir well and leave in the fridge to\u00a0for 15 – 30 minutes before serving.
\nServe as an appetiser with tortilla chips or as an accompaniment to grilled or barbequed meats and chilli con carne.<\/p>\n

DERWENTWATER YH 11th<\/sup> – 13th<\/sup> January 2008\u00a0 David <\/span><\/p>\n

12th<\/sup> January 2008<\/span>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Colin, David, Mo and Rachel in the Lake District.\u00a0 (Matt, Ian and Les did their own thing).<\/p>\n

There was another adverse weather forecast which was not as bad as stated. Parking at Braithwaite we ascended Grisedale Pike. The ground was particularly hard underfoot and was very cold and windy on top. There was a quick detour to Hopegill Head then back over Sand Hill, Crag Hill, Sail and Causey Pike to complete the Coledale Horseshoe. It was only as we reached the end that the cloud lifted and we could actually see the hills. Taking the ice axe and crampons were an unnecessary weight.<\/p>\n

The best bit was Mo forgetting to take his waterproof.\u00a0 Luckily David had a spare so we didn’t have to scurry back to the hostel to retrieve it.\u00a0 What Mo did have in his rucksack that he didn’t need was a spare pair of boots!\u00a0 Ed.<\/em><\/p>\n

1275m 6 hours approx. 9 miles (including the trip to the village pub) a good day for all.<\/p>\n

13th January 2008<\/span><\/p>\n

Colin, David, and Rachel – took in a trip around and over Cat Bells (2 hours). \u00a0This time the weather forecast was correct with very high winds. \u00a0It was just as well that we decided to go with the wind direction on top, as those coming up the normal way were taking to sitting down to get over the top. \u00a0Colin made a detour to Swinside for another bag to add to his list. \u00a0On collecting Mo from Keswick we went home, being back in time for tea.<\/p>\n

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LATHKILL DALE 19th January 2008\u00a0 David<\/span><\/p>\n

Colin, David, Sheila and Ann in the Peak District<\/p>\n

As there was yet another severe weather warning (which did not materialize) we went for a walk commencing at Over Haddon and descending into the valley of Lathkill Dale. The river was flooded, with much of the path being swamped. Colin, armed with his new camera was taking some rather good photos of a small bird to add to his overall total. There were some further impressive sights with the river pouring out of the hillside. There was then a trip into Moneyash, walking past the pub (!) and into the caf\u00e9 next door (which was a good move). \u00a0Following refreshments it was out into the hills just to the north which were a little more wet than before the caf\u00e9 with lunch at the head of old lead mine (which was 222m deep) and back to the car. 6 hours 330m.<\/p>\n

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CORRAN BUNKHOUSE 7th<\/sup> – 11th<\/sup> February 2008\u00a0\u00a0 Colin<\/span><\/p>\n

The accommodation at Corran certainly lifted the bar for all future trips.\u00a0 En suite, TV in rooms and a decent drying room all made it well worth the money.\u00a0 We didn’t have sole use so had to contend with another group but apart from some mumbles about door banging all was well.\u00a0 With a pub next door and an even better one a free ferry ride over the loch all was set for a good weekend.<\/p>\n

Friday 8th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>A wild day.\u00a0 The forecast mentioned ferocious winds, and it certainly was strong.\u00a0 Keith and Michele headed for the forest north of Fort William and eventually to the swimming pool.\u00a0 Colin, Ann, Debra and Steve walked from the bunkhouse up Glen Righ before ascending steeply to Beinn na Gucaig 616m.\u00a0 Here it was unpleasant but rather than take the straightforward SW ridge into the wind and rain a longer route was taken back to Glen Righ.\u00a0 Later it was almost pleasant and the waterfalls near to Inchree on the return journey were worth the detour.<\/p>\n

Matt, Ian, Les, Alastair and Kimberley tried for the two Munros of Sron a Choire Ghairbh and Meall na Teanga alongside Loch Lochy.\u00a0 Here the wind was ferocious and at the col between the two Munros no further progress could be made so there was nothing left but to retreat.<\/p>\n

Saturday 9th <\/sup><\/span><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Still not a pristine day and forecast but Keith, Michele, Alastair, Kimberley, Colin, Ann, Ian, Matt and Les set out optimistically for Sgor na h-Ulaidh 994m in Glencoe.\u00a0 The tops were in cloud and there was a steady breeze even in the valley so the steep slopes were tackled more in hope than expectation.\u00a0 Higher up at the 798m col things were more promising but it was a misty and snowy walk to the top of Stob an Fhurain 968m.\u00a0 Thought the descent to the next col was fine the ascent to the Munro proved to be steep and snowy.\u00a0 He descent of this grade 1 snow slope was treated cautiously by most but there was plenty of fun on the lower easier slopes.\u00a0 The rest was just a walk with a little drizzle during the last hour.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile Debra had done some damage to her feet on the previous day so with Steve drove down to Oban and went over the ferry to Mull as foot passengers for lunch.<\/p>\n

Sunday 10th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>This was to be the best day so an ascent of the Aonachs was selected.\u00a0 From the gondola station Ann, Debra, Steve. Keoth, Michele and Colin ascended with assistance to the top station and then also on a chair lift to about 920m (\u00a38.25).\u00a0 Here it was quite misty, cold and breezy.\u00a0 The walk to Aonach Mor 1221m was straightforward but there were significant snow patches on the descent requiring caution as with the mist it was close to a white out.\u00a0 At the col a path developed up Aonach Beag but with height a general snow cover created true white out conditions as we approached the summit.\u00a0 The GPS indicated that we had arrived at the summit and with the edge close by no one was keen to investigate further.\u00a0 A hole was dug to establish the depth of the snow and a retreat made down the hill.\u00a0 On the descent we met Matt, Ian and Les who had missed out on the 200m chairlift ride and had been puzzled as to why they had taken so long to catch us up.\u00a0 They continued by following our footprints and proceeded no further than the whole in the snow that we had dug.\u00a0 The two groups rejoined on the ascent of Aonach Mor and we continued together in improving conditions to watch the climbers at the top of the Aonach Mor cliffs.\u00a0 It never did quite clear which was a pity, but it will be there for another day.<\/p>\n

Monday 11th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>This was the day that most people were heading for home so it should be no surprise that there were clear blue skies and bright sunshine.\u00a0 Keith and Michele managed to climb the Corbett Ben Ledi 879m near to Callander and were rewarded with a temperature inversion.\u00a0 Colin and Ann were able to stay on a little longer so on the way to Tyndrum for a couple of extra nights drove to the Inveroran Hotel near to Bridge of Orchy for an ascent of Ben Inverveigh 639m and Meall Tairbh 665m.\u00a0 It was frosty underfoot and very cold in the shade but wonderfully bright and sunny.\u00a0 The route was straightforward but the lower part of the descent in the heather and grass a little tedious.<\/p>\n

Tuesday 12th <\/sup><\/span><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0For the final day Colin and Ann returned to Bridge of Orchy for an ascent on the two Munros of Beinn Dorain1076m and Beinn an Dothaidh 1002m.\u00a0 The climb to the col between the two mountains went remarkably easily and the south slopes of Beinn an Dothaidh were ascended first to give the north slopes on Beinn Dorain time to soften up a bit.\u00a0 There were some snow patches on Beinn an Dothaidh but all were fairly soft.\u00a0 Opposite things looked more wintry.\u00a0 Climbing Beinn Dorain the ground was still quite frozen in the shade and the snow was like concrete.\u00a0 Though we climbed some hard snow there were enough grass and rock patches to make the going more comfortable.\u00a0 On top the wind and sun had cleared most of the snow away and we were able to enjoy the view confident in the knowledge that an easy descent could be made.\u00a0 Ann was sufficiently impressed that she started phoning friends and family from the summit.\u00a0 Well it was a very fine location and view indeed.<\/p>\n

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WINTER TRIP TO SCOTLAND\u00a0 16th<\/sup> – 20th<\/sup> February 2008\u00a0 Mo<\/span><\/p>\n

Saturday 16th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

We started out at 1.30am and got to Fort William at 9am. \u00a0Had a good trip, sharing the driving with my son Daniel. \u00a0We had breakfast at Morrisons – it was crap! \u00a0Then we drove to the North Face car park, packed our rucksacks containing our food, four pints of milk, a bottle each of wine and beer, ready for three day stay in the CIC hut. \u00a0(Yes, the same hut that no-one at NMC wanted to stay at!)\u00a0 Arriving two hours later we dropped off our heavy sacs and, as the weather was so good, after our lunch we decided to go for a climb.<\/p>\n

The route we chose was No.5 Gully, grade one, as it was straight up from the hut.\u00a0 There was a lot of snow all the way up the gully and a lot of avalanche debris at the bottom. \u00a0It was a long way up, and at the half way point we came to the fracture point of the avalanche, which had a two foot step up in the snow.\u00a0 From here on Daniel and I were in the clouds and could not see the top.\u00a0 Nearer the top it got quite steep and we had a great adrenalin rush as we came up over the cornice.\u00a0 On the way down we navigated too far south and nearly missed the half-way lochan.\u00a0 On finding the loch we descended north to the river and the path which led to the car park. It was a long and tiring day but we both thoroughly enjoyed it.\u00a0 On Saturday night we stayed at Glen Nevis youth hostel, where we met my elder son Matthew and his climbing partner.<\/p>\n

Sunday 17th<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

The next morning we drove to the North Face car park for the final slog to the hut.\u00a0 On reaching the hut we found that the door was open, and we went inside to find a French climber who was staying in the hut with eleven more of his party.\u00a0 We were going to be rather snug!\u00a0 It may have been freezing outside that night, but the hut was nice and warm.\u00a0 After dinner we went outside to have a look at the view, and we could see the lights of the climbers high up on the face.\u00a0 Rather them than me!<\/p>\n

Monday 18th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

After a good breakfast we packed our ice axes, crampons and the rest of our gear and set off to do the Carn Mor Dearg Arete. This is walk that Daniel has always wanted to do.\u00a0 Conditions were freezing, clear and wind free.\u00a0 We soon started taking off layers as we used the axes and crampons – it was hard going.\u00a0 About halfway up when we stopped to take some photos, we could see a blanket of cloud over Fort William and we could see the tops of the mountains in the distance.\u00a0 It was a great sight.<\/p>\n

On reaching the ridge you could see for miles in all directions, and twenty minutes later we were at the summit and the sun came out for us.\u00a0 The only thing lacking was snow!\u00a0 We followed the ridge round to the Ben and on the walk up to the summit we came to some good, hard snow where we needed to use our crampons and ice axes again. I found a climbing helmet and donated it to Daniel as his was borrowed.\u00a0 At the summit the sky was bright blue and the weather perfect.\u00a0 We watched snow buntings as we ate our lunch.<\/p>\n

Our descent was No.4 Gully, the most straightforward and easiest to find as it has a marker post at the top. Whilst on the gully we spotted some ice climbers on the Smith’s Route, a V5 climb.\u00a0 We found out later that they were our new French friends.\u00a0 The cornice was not large, but a bit scary going over the top, and it looked a long way down.\u00a0 The snow in the gully and all the way back to the CIC hut was excellent.\u00a0 Now for tea and cake before dinner – what luxury in the mountains!<\/p>\n

Tuesday 19th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

The weather had improved day by day, and this was the sunniest so far.\u00a0 Today we decided to do the Ledge route, a grade 2 climb which is on the Carn Dearg Buttress. \u00a0In my book it describes the route as \u2018probably the best route of its grade on the mountain, with sustained interest and magnificent situations.’\u00a0 We reached the Ledge in forty-five minutes, and found a group of climbers gearing up.\u00a0 We decided not to hang around and headed up to the next ledge further up No 5 gully.\u00a0 This looked better, with more snow and ice.\u00a0 A slip whilst crossing the ledge would be fatal.\u00a0 After fifteen minutes we reached a large pile of rocks and the danger had passed. \u00a0We rested, took in the views and had some food.\u00a0 The remainder of the climb consisted mainly of scrambling on the bare rock, due to lack of the white stuff, but was a lot easier than we expected.\u00a0 We arrived on the top all too soon as my son and I were enjoying it so much.<\/p>\n

We chose the same route for our descent as the previous day and, as it was still only early in the afternoon we did some messing about in the snow like father and son climbers do!\u00a0 The forecast for Wednesday was that there was going to be a break in the weather, so this would be our last opportunity before returning home.<\/p>\n

What a fabulous adventure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SNOWDON 16th<\/sup> February 2008\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 David <\/span><\/p>\n

David, Rachel & Tony.\u00a0 This time we took a trip to North Wales. \u00a0The weather was very cold but with clear blue skies and although the temperature was below freezing, we could easily walk with just one layer on. \u00a0From the car park at the bottom of the Watkins path we ascended Yr Aran and then up the south ridge of Snowdon. \u00a0Awaiting ourselves at the top was a complete eyesore. \u00a0The new cafe was partially built, making the place a complete mess. \u00a0We agreed that the same should never have been built. \u00a0It would have been better just to have knocked down the old one and never replaced it! \u00a0Another eyesore was the new wall or platform which has partially been built around the top and then to make matters even worse – there were too many people! \u00a0Lunch was taken further down the hill returning down the south ridge.\u00a0 6 1\/4 hours 1350m.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

THE LONG MYND\u00a0 8th<\/sup> March Eileen<\/span><\/p>\n

Shropshire’s bleak and lonely ridge<\/strong>. – 12 Miles.\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n

Despite the bad weather forecast, and that England was playing Scotland at Rugby, there was very good turn out with 11 club members (Eileen, Keith H, Debra, Colin, Mark, Tony, Richard, Ann, Nick, Keith K and Michele).<\/p>\n

We arrived at Minton to find that there was no parking, despite what I was led to believe, so we drove to Little Stretton, parked by the stream and walked back up the hill to Minton.\u00a0 According to my book, Minton is an ancient settlement dating back to Saxon times and could have been a frontier settlement of Mercia. \u00a0Passing through the village we crossed the fields, contouring the hill and up the picturesque valley of Minton Batch over the top of the ridge, down to Asterton and on to Wentnor, where we found the Crown Inn, open and welcoming. \u00a0Having rehydrated, we continued on up the spur of Adstone hill following the main footpath up to the top of the Long Mynd and along “The Jack Mytton Way” to Pole Bank (516 m) our highest point of the day. \u00a0The bridle path is named in memory of “Mad Jack” Mytton, a skilled horseman who was apparently a drunken but likeable rogue, and was one time MP for Shrewsbury, before an early death at the age of 37 years.<\/p>\n

We descended back into Little Stretton via a very fine ridge which runs to the north of Round Hill and gives spectacular views into the valleys of Ashes Hollow and Callow Bottom.\u00a0 Although we experienced strong, gusty winds, the weather stayed dry throughout the walk, it was rather chilly and we kept up a very good pace with few stops, so consequently we finished earlier than expected and headed for to a tea shop in nearby Church Stretton.\u00a0 The first one we tried “Mr Bun the Baker” turned us, and the three people who entered the shop before us, out, as they were closing.\u00a0 This is 4 pm on a Saturday afternoon, so much for customer service. \u00a0So we made out way to another establishment who enjoyed our custom. \u00a0Duly refreshed we returned to Nuneaton.<\/p>\n

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HOLWICK CAMPING BARN, TEESDALE\u00a0 11th<\/sup> – 13th<\/sup> April 2008\u00a0 Colin<\/span><\/p>\n

If Corran Bunkhouse raised the accommodation bar then Holwick brought us back down to earth.\u00a0 Having said that we agreed that we would consider booking this again, but on the Friday it was cool and damp (presumably no usage in the week) and there were a couple of features such as water dripping through the light fitting and a pretty cool shower that could do with upgrading.<\/p>\n

Friday 11th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Mark Colin and Ann defied the forecast and parked up about 3 miles east of Sedburgh in Garsdale.\u00a0 On the hills opposite there was a covering of snow from about 600m but our objective was Aye Gill Pike 556m.\u00a0 The route was short and straightforward and alongside the stone walls there was enough snow for a decent snowball fight.\u00a0 It was cold in the wind but at least it wasn’t raining and there were some splendid views of the Howgills.\u00a0 When leaving the summit there was a hail shower bu5t otherwise it was quite bright.\u00a0 We returned to the car just before a proper rain shower swept across.<\/p>\n

Saturday 12th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>Ann, Colin, Mark, Keith, Michele and Eileen drove to Langdon Beck in Teesdale to bag a Black Grouse before returning to Hanging Stone car park for the start of the walk.\u00a0 Here Colin realized that he’d left his coat in the camping barn so had to prevail upon Mark (no audible complaint) to drive him back to retrieve it.\u00a0 Upon returning Trevor and Sue Littlewood had arrived to join us for the day from Weardale.\u00a0 With such expert local guides maps were secured in pockets and we set off up the hill.\u00a0 Fendrith Hill 696m was reached easily enough but the mile out to Cappelfell Top was a bit tedious especially as we had to return the same way.\u00a0 It was breezy with hail showers so the Weardale ski station hut was a sheltered spot for lunch.\u00a0 The route out to Westernhope Moor was better underfoot but the snow showers became more frequent.\u00a0 Descending to Teesdale the caf\u00e9 at Bowlees was a surprise but with rather more than Trevor’s 3 miles back to the cars and Susan Littlewood setting the pace at the front there were some sore feet and aching limbs by the end.\u00a0 However the silver lining was the walk along the Tees with good views of the waterfalls of Low Force and High Force.\u00a0 15 miles.<\/p>\n

Sunday 13th<\/sup><\/span><\/strong> \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Ann, Colin, Mark, Keith, Michele and Eileen.\u00a0 From the road end at Holwick on an excellent morning we walked a track until we were north of Bink Moss and then ascended another track and across the moor to the summit 618m.\u00a0 Cross Fell and other hills in the distance had a complete covering of snow while the Yorkshire Dales were in view to the south.\u00a0 The rest of the walk went easily enough and we arrived back at the cars before 2pm for the drive home.<\/p>\n

Spring in the North Pennines is a wonderful time for birdlife so I give no excuses for listing the more interesting species seen.\u00a0 Large numbers of Lapwing, Curlew, Red Grouse, Meadow Pipit, Skylark and Golden Plover.\u00a0 There were several Black Grouse and a number of Wheatear while there were also Dipper and Grey Wagtail on the Tees.\u00a0 Also there was a pair of Ring Ouzel, Kestrel, Snipe drumming, Redshank and Oystercatcher.<\/p>\n

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PROPERTY TO RENT IN SPAIN\u00a0 Cyril Deeming<\/span><\/p>\n

You probably don’t remember me but I was around when NMC first started. I was the first meets secretary. Well a lot has happened since then but I have ended up retiring to Spain. We have been here just over a year now living in the mountains about 50k north of Malaga. We are just buying a house here having lived in a Park home until now. We are now looking to rent out the park home; it is located at Alfarnatejo and is ideally situated for walking & climbing. It is 1.5 hours from Sierra Nevada for skiing, 50 minutes from both Malaga & Granada airports with cheap flights from Coventry. One hour from Malaga, Granada & the beach.\u00a0 Please see attached flyer for more details and maybe you could pass it round to see if anyone is interested in coming here for a holiday. If required we can lead walks and if a large group want to come over then the complex that we live on has other park homes for rent.<\/p>\n

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YOUTH HOSTEL 13.5m REVAMP\u00a0\u00a0 From BBC News via David<\/span><\/p>\n

Youth hostels across England and Wales are to be modernized in a \u00a313.5m programme of investment. \u00a0The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) said 37 would be revamped, with more staff training to improve services. \u00a0It said it would also unveil three new hostels, with a \u00a34.3m flagship premises in central London opening next month and others in East Sussex in 2009. \u00a0But it also announced the closure of three hostels in North Wales, Norfolk and Gloucestershire.<\/p>\n

The first 12 upgraded hostels, costing more than \u00a32.7m, will be ready for the 2008 season. \u00a0These range from the clifftop cottage in Pembrokeshire, at YHA Pwll Deri, to city locations in Manchester and London St Pancras.<\/p>\n

The new Sussex hostels will be in Eastbourne and Lewes.<\/p>\n

“When we announced a new strategy for YHA two years ago, we made a firm commitment to providing great hostels in great locations,” said YHA chief executive Roger Clarke. \u00a0“Some people were disappointed when we announced 32 closures two years ago but we promised at the time it was a means to an end. \u00a0“We needed to close and sell less successful properties to generate the funds needed to invest in the future so it’s hugely exciting that we are firmly on our way.”<\/p>\n

Hostels earmarked for \u00a31m-plus improvement schemes include Ilam in the Peak District; Bristol; Pen-y-Pass, in Snowdonia; St David’s, in South Wales; Grinton, in North Yorkshire; Treyarnon Bay, in Cornwall; Windermere, in the Lake District, and Exeter, in Devon. \u00a0Schemes costing from \u00a382,000 to \u00a3600,000 will be at Penzance, Cornwall; Conwy, north Wales and Ambleside, in the Lake District. \u00a0Smaller schemes are scheduled for Arundel, West Sussex; Coalport, Shropshire; Coverack in Cornwall; Haworth in West Yorkshire; Port Eynon, in South Wales; Salcombe, in Devon, and St Briavel’s Castle, in Gloucestershire. \u00a0The three to close are at Bangor, Great Yarmouth and Slimbridge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

FROM BBC NEWS \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0via David<\/span><\/p>\n

Tourist body in mountains gaffe.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

A photograph which VisitScotland claimed was of the Cairngorms has been removed from its website after it emerged it was taken in Argyll. The shot, labelled Aviemore and the Cairngorms, showed trees outlined against a misty background with snowy peaks soaring above them. \u00a0It was part of the website for the Perfect Day promotional competition run by the official tourist agency. \u00a0VisitScotland described the gaffe as an “honest mistake”.<\/p>\n

The picture sparked puzzlement and debate among outdoor enthusiasts who were trying to spot which mountain it showed. \u00a0Cairngorm ecology expert Dr Adam Watson spotted straight away that it was not taken on his home turf and suggested that it had been taken in the Bridge of Orchy area. \u00a0Anyone can make a mistake but it’s surprising that a body like that would not find it easy to find good photographs of the Cairngorms<\/p>\n

VisitScotland has now admitted he was right and confirmed the snap was taken at Loch Tulla, just outside Bridge of Orchy.\u00a0 Dr Watson said the error was “ridiculous” and expressed his surprise that an attractive image of the Cairngorm area had not been found. \u00a0He said: “It just obviously wasn’t in the Cairngorms. \u00a0I know these hills very well, I’ve been going there since I was a boy and I wrote the Scottish Mountaineering Club’s district guide to the Cairngorms. \u00a0It definitely wasn’t the Cairngorms. \u00a0“Anyone can make a mistake but it’s surprising that a body like that would not find it easy to find good photographs of the Cairngorms.”<\/p>\n

VisitScotland’s Helen Campbell told BBC Radio Scotland’s Newsdrive programme: \u00a0“It was an honest mistake.<\/p>\n

“As soon as we were made aware of the error we took immediate action to rectify it by replacing it with the image that’s up now on the site of Loch Morlich with the Cairngorms in the background.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SNOWDON RESCUE\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 From BBC News via David<\/span><\/p>\n

Two walkers rescued from Snowdon on Sunday night have been criticized by mountain rescuers. \u00a0Night vision goggles were used to locate the tw, before they were winched to safety by an RAF helicopter. Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team chairman Dr Gwyn Roberts said the 19-year-old men from Dorset were “Badly prepared and equipped”.<\/p>\n

He said the two were “Lucky” to have escaped unharmed after becoming lost as they tried to walk down the mountain.<\/p>\n

“This is a familiar story,” said Dr Roberts. “They had started off late in the day and had decided – to lighten their load they told us – to leave most of their equipment, including their map, in the car.”\u00a0 He said they were dressed in jeans, T-shirts and had no waterproof clothing, no shelter in case they were caught out overnight, no whistle, no food and “Just a little to drink”.\u00a0 They are very lucky that they were unharmed, it could have been much worse.<\/p>\n

The men told mountain rescuers they had asked someone else what conditions were like on Grib Goch on Snowdon, but had got lost and had phoned for help after trying unsuccessfully for two hours to find their way down.<\/p>\n

“We tried to talk them down, but when that proved unsuccessful we rang the RAF for assistance and they managed to winch them to safety,” said Dr Roberts.<\/p>\n

He said 16 rescue team members had assembled at their base camp in case low cloud prevented the Sea King helicopter reaching the two men.\u00a0 “Luckily the cloud lifted and the helicopter got to them, but it meant that 16 members of my team gave up their Sunday evening,” he added.\u00a0 Dr Roberts said the men told rescuers that they had prepared for the trip by “Researching on the internet”.<\/p>\n

“That is clearly not enough preparation, and people should have a map and compass and the ability to use them at least,” he said.\u00a0 “People should use their common sense and not take on too much, which had clearly happened in this case.<\/p>\n

“They are very lucky that they were unharmed, it could have been much worse,” he added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

NUNEATON MOUNTAINEERING CLUB NEWSLETTER 26\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 May 2008 Website http:\/\/www.nunmc.org\/ Edited by Colin Green   PROGRAMME\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 APRIL – AUGUST 2008\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Matt May 3rd\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Keith H’s Birmingham Balti Night Special. May 10th \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Peak District. Wildboar Clough with Keith and Michele. … Continue reading →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[19],"tags":[45,26],"class_list":["post-43","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-19","tag-45","tag-newsletters"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=43"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":72,"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43\/revisions\/72"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=43"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=43"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nunmc.org.uk\/w2012\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=43"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}