Well it has been a few months since my last little piece in the newsletter and after the coldest and wettest winter for a number of years we have at last had a summer of some note.Despite a bit of cloud and drizzle over the last few weeks pretty much the whole of June and July have been bone dry, sunny and hot – so much so that the more exposed crags became no go areas and those with tree cover were actively sought out.
Overall the local sandstone meets have been relatively well attended this year and it has been good to catch up with everyone including both Mandy and Sarah who have recently returned from foreign parts.
Away trips have unfortunately not enjoyed the same level of support with a couple not going ahead due to lack of sufficient interest although those that have run appear to have been thoroughly enjoyed by those who took part. However the forthcoming Lundy trip appears to be an exception to this rule with a full complement of hardy adventurers currently preparing to go forth and do battle with some superb sea cliffs next week – fingers crossed regarding wind and rain.
For those unable to commit to a whole week away there is still a weekend at Swanage in September and Baggy Point in October. Both are camping and, if weather permits, I am hoping that we can get a good level of support for both these trips.
On a more serious note injury rates have been up recently with both Chris and Ed suffering broken ankles due to falls whilst trad climbing. I would like to take this opportunity to wish them both a speedy recovery from their injuries and to say how much we all look forward to seeing them out and about in the near future.
I would like to conclude by wishing everyone the best of climbing over the coming weeks and urge you all to make best use of the remaining light evenings and hopefully dry weekends.
Best wishes
John