Loitering in Langdale (May 08)

I knew we were going somewhere exciting when the tent came out and sure enough after over 2 hours in the car we were in a field with long tickly grass and Nigel sat looking very relaxed. I might have guessed there'd only be a 10 minute lapse before a pub featured but that was okay as I persuaded some young lads to throw a bit of plastic for hours. They even tried to speak doggy language by saying woof woof. Haven't a clue what they meant but wagged my tail encouragingly!!
 
Next morning dawned bright and not so early for some - especially Sue I gather - but there were plenty of stick throwers about so I was happy. Then back to the human obsession to walk uphill and then downhill and then uphill and then downhill ..... and on it goes!! They didn't even do the refreshing bit of swimming in Stickle tarn though my mistress excelled herself by needing a fairly public wee on top of Stickle Pike! While the humans were looking at a view ( I've never understood what that is) I went looking for a bog to roll on but it was all rather dry. I did find a couple of ticks to upset my owner with later! There was a confusing moment for me on Blea Rigg when there was talk of an emergency rabbit and everyone biting it's head of but even though I sniffed frantically I couldn't find it. Sue did have this strange chocolate thing that the humans ripped apart. Then they were seeing rabbits in rocks - humans are so eccentric sometimes. We walked the whole of Blea Rigg which even knacked me so glad for a sleep in another pub while the humans managed to cut a pie into 5 and feast on it. I could've shown them how to eat it in 2 bites but was too sleepy.
Later the humans sat round in blankets and 6 coats each having a shivering competition. I think some cheated by setting light to their barbecues and Maurice certainly cheated by putting paper on his and getting massive flames. Like everything else I had to show the humans how to do it properly and sat on my owners lap shivering pathetically and getting the winning vote of looking the most cold, in spite of Maria's best effort to look similarly pathetically cold.
 
Next day was bright again so off we set uphill again. The humans were determined it was Summer in shorts but changed their minds when the wind hit them. Of course dogs are sensible and always have their fur coats with them. Up to Crinkle crags today but I couldn't see any crinkles. Lots of feet to get under though and worry people across the craggy bits - I do enjoy a bit of mild panic from humans when they think they are going to trip over me! Half way along Daniel tried to use me as a kite where the wind was howling up a gully and he had me on a lead. I stopped going airborne by digging my claws in. Various other tactics from the humans were most amusing. My mistress crawled across the gap on hands and knees. Maria just ran manically across screeching 'isn't this fun'! Nigel took a short run until blown over, rested and then darted again. Keith crouched down cossack style while Steve in a moment of disbelief that the wind could be so strong raised his arms and was promptly blown flat! I was quite glad to retreat down the band and yes you've guessed it, have a sleep in the sunshine and wind free spot of yet another pub! After the humans had drunk that strange liquid whereby they degenerate into drivel we went back to the tents for another hours sleep and another pub - infact the weekend was just a pub crawl!!
 
The last day and fortunately my owner didn't fancy another wind blown day on the hill so I didn't have to admit to being tired and could look dead tough strutting my stuff on the campsite in the morning. We did do a circuit of lots of tarns and streams though which was nice and wet and many of them were lined with nice dry people sunbathing that I could cool down by shaking all over them!! And yet another pub in Elterwater where I could watch loads of kids playing with balls. I could safely pretend to look keen being tied up, but was really too tired to play.
I enjoyed the weekend and all the fuss off the humans.
 
Josh

Josh Bumbling in Borrowdale (20 July)

No harem when I arrived - just lots of rain, but Daniel and Lindsay let me dry off on their doormobile carpet while the humans did their usual talking rubbish on this stuff called alcohol.

The next day started wet as well and I was impressed the humans set out anyway - perhaps they've finally learnt that sticks and stones are a far better part of the walk than whatever this scenery thing is they go on about! It did clear though and I was torn when the group split into 2 near the top of dale head - do they not know it's my job to keep the flock together? In the end as my mistress has my food and my holiday maid Christine was there, I decided I'd look after the girlie group which also had Jenny. A shame as all the male stick throwers went the other way - I missed you Mark and Nigel!! Still it turned out well because as the weather improved we stopped to look at the view and sticks were thrown and even a scratty bit of heather. It never ceases to amaze me what you can persuade humans to throw. I learnt Italian off an old guy we met as well though my mistress was sceptical of this. A quick swim in the Lake and back for a barbecue and snooze in the group. I was a little nervous of Rob's pet lion - I prefer my Rosie, Poppy and Truffle!

Next day dawned leisurely and I was pleased that one of the main stick throwers, Nigel , came along the river with us. It got exciting at Seathwaite when a load of sheep were brought in off the Fell. I could almost imagine being a proper sheep dog until the rough farm dogs came down - I hid under the table and they didn't see me luckily!! A pesky little puppy followed us for a while and I dispute my mistresses idea that I was a pesky puppy once. I've always been mature and sensible!! It was another good weekend - I like this club!! Josh

Whitsun walking in Wasdale with Josh

4 hours in the car including a tea break at Rheged was bloody boring so it was a relief to finally get out of the car in such an empty wild valley. Luckily the humans (my mistress and Becky) were as keen as me and my delightful harem of Poppy and Truffle to stretch the old legs. Mind even I thought the slope up Yewbarrow Fell was steep. As usual there was the inactive 'oh look at the view' moment from the top, but I did get sticks thrown down the hill for me. Poppy had great fun trying to pull her owner down after me under the pretence of wanting to chase the stick as well!!

It was getting late when we had quite a scary scramble down - I had to cuddle into my mistress arms a couple of times down some little drops. I don't know about the humans but I was rather keen to recover with a drink in the pub after it all. Simon and Sue found us there - they sensibly guessed that's where my owner would be!!

Next day dawned sunny and bright. Two more humans arrived - Maria and Grace - so it was a good social venture out on the day's walk. There was the usual up and then down and then up and then down and then up etc etc that these humans go in for, with lots of exclamations about the view. It was disappointing stick country but the rabbit scents were interesting and once on the scree Simon did a good job of stone throwing. The wind stopped me getting too hot but it was a long day including the tops the humans called Kirk Fell, Pillar, Scoat Fell.

The valley down was gorgeous with rabbits and a nice cool stream and soft grass to walk on as my paws were a bit tired. Amazingly, we didn't go to the pub and a new member of my harem arrived - Rosie with her human Jon-Paul. She really fancied me and I thought she was a bit of alright as well. I was knackered though so while the humans drunk this red stuff which makes them talk rubbish loudly, I went to bed early.

The next morning, Maria had this game of trying to break into her car with bits of wire and string - she'd locked her key inside. In the end they smashed a window but wouldn't let me chase the bits of glass. The weather forecast was rain, so the humans decided to walk a long way to a different pub for lunch in Boot. It was just an excuse I reckon as it didn't rain and stayed clear all day. I was happy to go anywhere with my harem of 3. I showed off splodging in the bog, chasing rabbits, finding sticks and jumping in the tarn. Rosie adored me and followed me everywhere. I think I'm in love!

Why walk 2 hours to a pub I wonder just to walk back? Humans are very strange. They enthused over this thing called a view, but I don't really know what they mean. It took all day to get back to the tent and even the humans had a bit of a sleep which suited me. I was exhausted from impressing my ladies all day looking energetic and macho. Having been at the pub at lunch time must have put them in the mood for more beer as I had my harem under the table at the pub that night as well! Bliss!! Rosie curled up nestled against me. After 3 days walking I was quite happy to have a short walk up to Styhead Pass on the last day. I carried a stick, but was a bit tired to chase it and the 3 hours back in the car was great for a sleep. Fantastic weekend! Josh

Josh in the North york Moors 15 May

I love these Tuesday nights - a decent walk to finish the day is a delight!! There seemed to be a lot of sitting in cars on mobiles until we all found each other but at last I was let loose!! For some reason we had a look at the Cleveland Way first and then came back to another path 10 yards away - it could've been worse as I've known these humans to walk right to the top of a hill only to walk down again. They are strange!!

Anyway, this walk was ace as we started on a superb bog so my tummy was all nice and tickly with mud - then I needed carrying over a stile!! The humans didn't notice me laughing! Next a field of cows and I was SCARED!! Janet fended them off with a stick but a big black one kept charging us. I tried to climb into my mistresses arms to be safe but she had armed herself with 3 enormous sticks. She got all rambo like about fighting this cow in a narrow gap in the trees, but Janet's idea was much better - jump over the stile!! As cows can't climb stiles my mistress agreed that this was perhaps the best course of action!

The next part was wooded and I had to look really pathetic to get carried over the nettles until we were among soft bluebells again. Then the highlight of the walk - moorland and rabbits by the MILLION in ever shape, size and colour. Forget these Wainstone rocks the humans were admiring, I didn't know where to chase them all. I caught one - that's never happened before. I was so shocked I dropped it and then couldn't stop chomping in my excitement so it escaped. What do you do with a rabbit you've caught it- they are supposed to run away. As it got dark we did a steep descent on sloping steps - not good planning I have to say humans!! However, we met all the climbers so it was a nice social ending. When's the next Tuesday walk and where are the other dogs!! Josh

A Day walk at Rookhope 29 April

My owner drove a long way to get the sun rather than cloud. Humans always listen to the forecast so avidly and worry about rain or sun. As I've said before a fur coat is the best thing, then the weather dosn't matter! In the sunshine I had the perfect excuse to get into muddy puddles to cool down - I love the tickly feel of a wet belly. We met father christmas going up the hill. It was a bloke with a bushy white beard and red sellapettes so who else could it be? He was on a quad bike rather than reindeer and dam near caught my mistress weeing!! I've trained her well in leaving a scent along the route. As well as 2 of my favourite dog sitters - Janet and Christine - there was a new visitor Kate. She was obviously very astute because she kept saying I was intelligent and a lovely dog!

In typical human fashion we walked up the hill to walk back down again - funnily enough Janet commented on the futility of this!! However, it was on moorland with MILLIONS of rabbit scents and even a hare. The best bit was when the path ceased to exist and there was just heather and bog. I zoomed round and round laughing at the humans tiptoeing round the slimy bits and tottering along. They didn't seem much in the mood for sticks at that point, but that was okay as I had rabbits to play with. The road walk back was painful and I was actually pleased to sleep in the car while the humans gorged on cake in the cafe at the end. Josh

Josh On Hadrian's Wall - Easter Monday

I'd just recovered from a long drive back from Scotland and was wondering what excitement lay ahead when lo and behold my mistress took me up to Hadrian's Wall with 2 of my favourite dog sitters - Janet and Christine - for an Easter Monday stroll. You would have thought Christine had been somewhere hot like New Zealand or somewhere the way she wrapped up against the cool wind. These humans really need to grow more hairs - you can always moult it all over the car and carpets when it gets hot!

There was a lot of people about and luckily 2 kids threw sticks most enthusiastically for me for the first part of the walk. Lost them when for some reason we had to sit next to a tree and dream of Kevin Costner - who's he? Does he throw sticks? Then an ice cream stop - my humans were obviously not in a rush to get to stick country in a small wood I could see along the wall. I had to keep abandonning them for other stick throwers amongst unsuspecting tourists. My mistress looked disbelieving when they all said how clever I was for bringing the stick back - she dosn't recognise true intelligence. The perfect stick takes some finding you know.

We came back via a field of rabbit smells which was pleasant. I was a little nervous of the cows but my owner had a big rock incase they turned funny and the ignored us anyway. I got left in the car for a cafe at the end. The cakes must've been good judging by the satisfied licking of lips of my owner.

A nice run out though a bit short for a really good sleep in the car coming home! Josh

Easter meet report (6-9th April 2007)

Five intrepid mountaineers (Pete, Damian, Penny M, Nigel and myself) set off for a long weekend in the Glen Coe area. Our accommodation looked like something from a Country and Western set (ie a ranch style motel) which was comfortable, complete with a bar and restaurant next door, and was a good choice from our booking officer. Anyway, we did do some mountain activities too.

Friday dawned as warm and dry, but slightly cloudy. We headed into Glen Coe for 'an easy day'. We walked into the Lost Valley, which is a hanging valley left over from the last glacial period which cannot be seen from the road. This consisted of an ascent through a rivered gorge, and once ascending a lip, opened out into a wide expanse. You could imagine the dinosaurs roaming, but we met two super fit Germans who ate carrots instead. We traversed a snow slope that was good fun (Pete did a pretty good job kicking steps in the snow for us to follow). Unfortunately, for the rest of the group, I spotted a Munro and with cries of 'Come on, DMS' we ventured forth. Thirty minutes later we realised that the ascent was too difficult without ice axes, and gingerly descended. We then strode up Stob Coire nan Lochan (a Munro top of 1115m) which was not to be sniffed at - and then had an extremely steep descent back to the Glen floor. We passed some spectacular buttresses on the way down. An easy day of eight hours….

Saturday, three of us went for a much harder day of a boat trip on Loch Linnhe (the Loch next to Fort William) and spotted seals, salmon and seaweed. Damien and Nigel were more adventurous and headed into Glen Etive to climb a single Munro. This proved to be more difficult than first anticipated, on their return much was made of heather bashing and picnics…

Sunday, the weather was closing in, so we decided to walk into Glen Nevis. This is a Glen on the West side of Fort William which initially starts with a hanging waterfall, fast flowing river and then opens out into the Glen. I tried to encourage the fearless four to walk the Steall bridge, which is a precarious wire rope bridge which crosses the river, but their were no takers. I got away with boasting that I had achieved my crossing three years ago before completing the 'Ring of Steall' and therefore I didn't need to demonstrate this again. To be honest it was pretty hairy and I remember feeling relieved that I only had to do this a single time…..once in the Glen, we heard mutterings from Penny about 'living histories' and settlements, and Pete added his bit about 'It's just Geography alive!'. Thank you to the group for a good weekend…I'll never mention 'easy days' again! Kathy

A day out at Blanchland

A Classic Mixed Activity weekend by DMS members (March 2007) Saturday 10th dawned fair for a group of 4 walkers and 4 dogs (yes 4 dogs!) at Blanchland. The aim of the day was a 7ish mile walk over the moors. It took a while for the dogs to introduce themselves to each other and the humans (Nick, Karen, Penny with Janet watching in amusement) to untangle leads before a gentle rise gradually took us up on into the moors with superb views down to Tynedale as well as across the North Durham moors. Clouds threatened but little more as the walk finished with a pleasant stroll back along the river - a lovely day for humans and dogs alike.

Penny

Kayaking on the River swale near Richmond

Sunday 11th was Nick's maiden kayak voyage down the River swale near Richmond with Penny. In new boat he set off in competent style looking comfortable on the series of rapids encountered. 12 miles is a long way and darkness loomed when the final bend gave magnificent views of Richmond Castle for a very successful maiden voyage indeed - well done Nick!

Penny

A Dog's diary by Josh (March 2007)

March has indeed been a classic month. First of all there was a day in Hamsterley with Sue and Jenny (and my mistress of course) in a wood absolutely bursting with STICKS. What a superb venue. We did leave the woods but that was okay because there was still heather to throw on the moors and rabbits to chase. Humans are obsessed with scenery and miss the best bits of a walk.

The next weekend we had a real lads gang out at Blanchland. There was me, Jack and Jasper (with their owner Nick), and Oscar (with Karen) who was the sensible gentlemanly one of us. Jack was mad and ran MILES to find rabbits. He was my hero! There was lots of playing and I got so excited I just had to chomp my teeth - it was great!

Then a weekend at the Lakes with my harem of 2 - Truffle and Poppy. The humans won't let me show my appreciation of these girls by weeing on them. I don't know why. There was some new humans to throw sticks - thanks Chris especially who kept going most of the day and Daniel and Lindsay. Again a nice mix of open ground with scents to follow and woods with STICKS - oooo the delight of woods! I have to say the humans lost interest in sticks a bit when it rained but I've always admired the humans solution to bad weather - let's go to the pub the say! It was nice and hot and they even got a taxi back. It was hugely windy overnight in the car and the snow rattled against the windows a bit so didn't sleep that well. I was quite pleased to kip in the car while my mistress went canoeing the next day!

Josh

Sunday 2nd April - Simonside

Woke from an excellent sleep full of rabbits, cats and sticks to find myself in Rothbury. Just as I'd got all excited about walkies, I got that dreaded word STAY. Why are humans so obsessed by tea and scones? Anyway, eventually dragged them out and got barked at by Harvey - Yap, Yap, Yap. I tried to entice him near a viscious swan to get eaten, but it didn't work.

A foray amongst rabbit droppings and long grass up a lane calmed him down. The humans insisted on looking at a high tower - I could only wee up a tenth of it. I hope old age isn't affecting my cocked leg stance - the girlies will go off me. The walk then entered heaven - a wood full of sticks. It was amazing and I didn't really notice the steepness that the humans whinged on about. In the open ground above the wood, we had a dog biscuit and stick chew stop before climbing a lovely, soft, cloying bog in the rain onto the top of Simonside.

Now Dan and Robyn had the right idea getting clarted up to the eyeballs and enjoying it. Jenny was worried about muddy trousers. I was proud of my mud caked belly and the rain meant we didn't have to keep stopping to look at views and could concentrate on sticks - though I think there was a view at times from what the humans said.

Anyway, another stop at a fort and my mistresses 4th wee - Janet is right - she does have spaniel tendencies and I have to be alert to keep up! There was a horrible cacophenous sound and the sky filled with 47 swans (I can't count - that's what Robyn made it). It was a bit scary but they carried on over us. More nature intrusions with frogs hatching at a pond and doing what comes naturally to us animals all over the path - having a wild mating session. While the humans tip-toed daintily over them I dropped my stick on their heads!! The frogs ignored us. Finally, back to Rothbury after an excellent day and yet more sleep time while humans drunk yet more tea!!

Josh the dog

Ennerdale 10-13th November

At first light on Saturday the lead climbing party of Tingle, Bates, Wilkinson, Rose, Hobbs and Burrows donned their boots and made their first steps out of Advance Base at Bowness car park. This was the day they had dreamed of all week, the day they would finally summit the peak that they had often gazed upon from other less lofty summits in this stupendous range of mountains. The hard work started almost immediately, with Wilkinson and Tingle alternately swapping leads up the steep and exposed slopes to the first col, with the others following, glad that they had already spent time acclimatising to the thin air. At around 10.30 the party left the steep southwest face and gained the broad whale back col which rose up in the west to the subsidiary summit of Herdus, and just half a kilometre to the east, their first goal of the day, the shimmering summit of Great Borne at 6160m (give or take a factor of 10).

Easy slopes lead to this fine summit, given added grandeur by broken cloud hanging over the upper slopes. The party slumped on the summit with relief, pleased that they were well on schedule. A hasty brew was made as rehydration is essential at such high altitudes. Dry rasping throats troubled by weeks of high altitude cough were grateful of the warming liquid.

From their vantage point, the climbers gazed toward their objective for the day. A twisting sinuous ridge of sublime beauty lead to the 6330m summit of Starling Dodd. Beyond the second peak was the harder ground that they had studied for many weeks in the build up to this day. The awesome northwest ridge of Red Pike soared above the surrounding ground, curving like a scimitar to the final pyramidal peak at 7250m.

The team set off again, making good time along the ridge, but constantly wary of the crumbling cornices and seracs. Fortunately, the clouds held off which allowed clear views all the way back to Base Camp at Fell Dyke, 4000m below them. To the southeast there was an amazing view of the huge glacial valley of Ennerdale stretching up to the impregnable buttresses of Great Gable, at that moment being attempted by the immensely strong joint Latvian/ Czech expedition.

In the early afternoon, the group had gained the final col below the northwest ridge of Red Pike at 5810m. This had originally been named Messnerspitz by its first ascensionist in 1970, but had since reverted to its native name given to it by the local humble farming community that lived in the foothills.

At the col, the group split after some discussion. Wilkinson wanted to pursue his long awaited dream of a traverse of the technical looking Lingcombe Edge, descending the north face of Blea Crag to gain the remote valley of Whiteoak Moss, before following the long glacier back to the car park. The remainder of the team stuck to their original goal of the northwest ridge. Leaving Wilkinson as a tiny speck amongst the immense grandeur of the col, sometimes known as the 'Throne Room of the Mountain Gods', Tingle and Burrows broke the trail up the first slopes.

Almost immediately the going got harder, and the weather worsened. Thick cloud came down and the lead pair had to rely on their years of high altitude mountaineering experience to navigate the group to their goal. Steady climbing brought them to within 50 metres of the summit, where they were stopped by a soaring band of impregnable red rock. The gully pitch that they had previously thought would hold the key to gaining the summit pyramid turned out to be a dead end. Luckily Tingle spotted a faint rising traverse which led precariously across the upper slopes of the huge west face. The group crept along it in poor visibility, aware that one false step would send them tumbling down a 4000m precipice into the sheepfold next to the youth hostel. Finally through the gloom they gained the south ridge. Almost immediately Tingle stumbled upon some footsteps which were no doubt left by the successful Chinese expedition from the Spring. They followed the footsteps up the final slope and triumphantly gained the summit. Great elation was felt and Rose, Bates, Hobbs, Tingle and Burrows hugged and slapped each others backs as tears of joy welled up beneath their oxygen masks. Sadly there was only time for a quick photo and a swift cup of tea as the lateness of the day made the team very aware of their exposed position. A night out in the open at this altitude would be hard to survive …

After some superb compass work, the team left the storm shroud of cloud that was wrapped around the mountain by the screaming jet stream winds. Although glad to be on more sheltered slopes, there was still work to be done in descending the 4000m face down to the Ennerdale Glacier. After a brief temporary camp just out of the path of any avalanches, at which another cup of tea was drunk, the team gratefully reached the familiar valley floor. The forest seemed intensely alive after the stark barren desert of the high mountain environment. Soon they heard the sound of bells and were lucky to see a group of orange robed monks making their way to prayer at the Kings Head monastery. Smoke from burning juniper mingled with incense in the pine trees and every step was a welcome step closer to home. Suddenly the group rounded the corner to be greeted with the welcome sight of a bustling advance base camp, full of climbers from all over the world busy preparing their picnic baskets and walking the dogs. At that point, Wilkinson trudged into camp, sunburnt, frostbitten, exhausted, but happy, having completed the first traverse by a non-local through the sheepfolds at Banna Fell. Then, with a sense of relief our reunited team peeled off their boots and looked forward to their next great adventure with DMS…

Dalby Trailquest, 15th October

On 15th October Graham (Barnes) and I competed in our first Trailquest event. Trailquest is orienteering on mountain bikes where the aim is to visit as many control points as possible within a time limit, combining navigation with riding over rough ground.

On a grey morning, we arrived at Dalby Forest with some trepidation on seeing some very professional-looking mountain bikers around. We quickly unloaded the bikes and after some last minute tuning and cramming of bananas, we queued up at the start area, watching riders go off individually or in pairs at 1 minute intervals. We hung around as long as possible to delay the start and the pain to follow… Finally we were given our event map which was marked up with all the control points plus their score value. Controls are set so the ones closest to the start are worth low value points (usually 5) whilst those furthest away or up the steepest hills are worth the highest value (25). The aim is to get as many points within the time limit. Anyone over the time limit gets points deducted so careful pacing is essential.

Suddenly the Starter shouted GO! We were off against the clock. After some hasty moments working out a likely route, we pedalled hard for the first hill of the day. Within minutes we were grinding away in bottom gear and puffing hard. Then we began to overhaul a couple of teams who had started in front - maybe we weren't as unfit as we thought. After 5 minutes, we approached the first control. We flew off the road and onto a firebreak, frantically searching for the square red and white marker sign. Surely we were in the right place? Other teams thought so to as they followed us into the trees…

Two minutes later we realised we were short of the target, so it was back onto the road for a quick sprint to the next bend where, in full display, was our first control. We swiped our electronic counters through the counter which gave a satisfying electronic beep, and more importantly, our first 5 points…but we'd spent 11 minutes getting there! Time to speed up…

With 109 minutes to go we sped off along a dashed line on the map, which turned out to be a muddy path through a recently felled piece of forest. Twelve minutes later, we dragged our bikes out of the final thicket of spruce and got back onto a forest road with some relief. We soon found our second control - worth 15 points. We had lost too much time though and decided to avoid short cuts after that…

Things then got easier and we bagged two more controls in short succession. After the first hour, we had visited 6 controls worth 90 points, the sun had come out, and we began to enjoy ourselves.

A 3km freewheel down a long hill was welcome relief and enabled us to bag controls 7 through to 9, increasing our points to 150. There was now only 20 minutes left though, and there were 7 very steep kilometres back to the finish. We set off in low gear, and with weary legs, grabbed a last big 25 point control. This spurred us on and with a final push we crested the last hill and returned to tarmac… but we only had 5 minutes left! A furious downhill pedal ensued, with heads down over the handlebars…. Could we make it?

Suddenly we were at the finish, narrowly avoiding running over the marshal in our haste to beat the time limit. In fact we were well inside it - finishing in 1 hour 56 minutes and 16 seconds, with 175 points. Our score didn't seem too bad, and after the final tired, muddy but happy cyclists had returned we eagerly searched the results list…we had come 23rd out of 34 in class A (Men aged 17-39). We were quite pleased with our first attempt and vowed to do it again…

Postcript:

Inspired by our success, we entered a 4 hour national championship event at Guisborough two weeks later. The day was wet, cold and very windy and the event area was huge, stretching from Guisborough to Roseberry Topping and beyond Kildale.

We spent the first hour alternately riding and pushing our bikes through muddy gloop, all for a measly 5 points. After 2 ½ hours of being battered by the westerly gale, with stinging eyes from the mud and a points total of just 55, we gave up, skidding and squelching our way to the finish. Better luck next time we thought. After the event, we were amazed to find we had finished 9th out of 23. It turned out that of those who carried on for the full 4 hours, about 10 had got completely lost, some finishing an hour over the time limit and being penalised all their points… sometimes it pays to head for the café early…

We are now planning on doing the Kendal winter league for a bit of practice before a full attempt at the 2006 Yorkshire summer series…

Langdales 17-18 September

It was pitch black on arrival at the campsite and if Janet had n't found me, I doubt I would have found her. With only one torch on low batteries tent erection was a little traumatic, but as we headed to pub words a full moon came up and bathed the whole valley in gleaming silver light - it was beautiful.

They cold night saw Janet and I huddled round cups of tea next morning when Sue found us. Its good we all met up as planned. The three of us and Josh headed up the Crinkle Cracks with ominous grey clouds that dripped a bit, but no actual proper rain. We'd all forgotten what a long interesting ridge the Crinkle were. The cloud stayed high and views that were surprisingly clear in all directions. The collapsed chock stone on a small scramble proved no problem because a new path went round it. Despite an icy wind, the clearness of the views tempted us up onto Bowfell, where the clouds finally collapsed down on us. Rather then the relentless trog down the Band we dropped over to Angle Tarn, where we were treated to a rather bizarre site of Josh running terrified from a sheep with attitude. He did manage a brave park back half a mile away from the safety of our legs! The rest of the date was miserably wet, not improved by a pub full of kids and having to beat our meals standing up. We went to bed early!

Sunday dawned much drier. With clag on the tops we decided to do a valley walk. The contour path via Blea Tarn to Little Langdale was delightful with airy views and pleasant walking. Sue had never seen cathedral quarry so we went to marvel at it's the rock formation before following a track over to Elterwater. The pub did fantastic meals served very quickly; I'd recommend the place take anybody passing through. Finally another contour path with different views took it back to Langdale valley and that end of a cracking and weekend. It must have been good - jobs that all Sunday night!

Peak District Trip, 18-19th June

Wow, a fabulously sunny weekend trip, got to be worth remembering! Most of us headed down to the Peak District Friday evening, Andy had been super-organised and got a day’s climbing in with a friend before anyone else got there.

We camped just outside Hope Village (about 10 yards from the Manchester – Sheffield railway line, but the campsite had a cafe which made up for a multitude of sins with stunningly reasonable bacon butties). On Saturday Andy headed off early for another day’s climbing and Penny went down to Nottingham to go paddling and won a very pretty wee trophy. The rest of us got up a bit more slowly, and battled with the tourists of Man Tor – Susan did a nice little circuit of Man Tor and Cave Dale, Phil and Sam met up with some friends of Sam’s for a day around Man Tor, most of us also managed to find a window of opportunity in our day of extreme adventure to fit in an ice cream and siesta.

Phil and Sam had got organised and brought a barbeque, so dinner was al fresco, relaxed and involved a lot of sausages and some carbonised vegetables (whoever thought up the concept of fire proof wooden kebab sticks???!!!!).

Sunday was also lovely weather, and we all headed up to Ladybower reservoir. Susan and Penny (and Josh!) did a very nice ridge walk above the reservoir, taking in the Cakes of Bread, Salt Cellar and something which may have been a Cheese Sandwich, Phil and Sam did a different walk (not sure what, sorry!). The journey home was definitely the scariest bit of the whole weekend – hail, floods, lightning, wow, it was like Armageddon!
A great weekend anyway, be nice to have more like it!

Snowdon 28-30 May

It was a really tedious drive in huge traffic jams on the Friday, and when 2 tents blew down overnight in the gales and rain, some of us did wonder why we had bothered. However, being soical, we rallied, repitched the tents in the shelter of a wall and hatched some plans for a wet and wild Wales on Saturday.

Chris and Andy were the most intrepid with a scramble of Tryfan North Ridge, which they claimed to enjoy - we were a bit sceptical as to how they could in the conditions!! Nick and Carolyn explored Betsy Coed and Chris, Mary and I did the dog walking tourist day. It started with a windy, wave crashing stroll along Newborough beach on Anglesea admiring the awesome skill of some wind surfers and then as the weather cheered up we had a pleasant stroll round Padarn Lake. Josh thought the sticks were brilliant!! A few beers in the pub after and a good meal in good company made us all pleased we'd come after all!

The next day was sunny!! All of us went up onto the the Carnedds with Andy and Chris taking a rather convoluted route to tick off numerous minor tops not conquored before. The rest of us decided on a long leg stretch and walked the whole ridge of 7 tops from the Ogwen valley to the sea. It was brilliant - clear views, not too hot in a cool wind and a very relaxed group. It was a late finish so we opted for the barbecue option for tea. Becky had arrived with 2 enthusiastic puppies and sorted the sausages!! Neither puppy was particularly worn out by their romp at Newborough and both were guilty of roguing food so guard your supplies!!

Monday, the group fragmented somewhat, because of various travel arrangements and a desire not to repeat the traffic jam ordeals of Friday. Nick, Carolyn, Chris and Mary had a longer than planned day exploring slightly off route on Tryfan North Ridge - it was thoroughly enjoyed by them. Chris went to conquor more minor tops on the Gldas ridge this time. Becky went to wear her dogs out round Padarn Lake. I had a superb sunny day with more clear views taking the front ridge onto Y Garn and then traversing over the rock formations of the Glydas. It was an excellent weekend and Snowdonia is a magic place, even if all of Manchester, Liverpool and Birminham were there with us!

Newtonmore, 26th-27th February.

Another good turn out, this time 14 people made the long drive up to Craigower Lodge on Friday night. The hostel was very good, with possibly the best showers in the Highlands, according to one happy and very clean person. Saturday started bright, but promises of a perfect day turned out slightly wrong, with poor visibility, snow showers and spindrift on the tops. A walking team of Sue, Sandy, Damian, Christine, and Neil headed up Cairngorm from Coire na Ciste, with Damian putting in a personal best for breastroke through the deep snow. Meanwhile, Lyndsey, Nic, Carolyn, Ken, Sarah, and Pete went skiing and snowboarding in the fog. Snow conditions were the best they have been for three years and enjoyable day was had by all, particularly with the walkie talkies. Meanwhile, Martin and Judy headed off with rucksacks bulging with ice axes and swimming costumes to explore the Northern Corries and the health spa at the Coylumbridge Hilton.

Better weather on Sunday saw Martin, Judy and Neil on Geal Charn, above Drumochter. On their way down, they passed the later starting group of Nic, Carolyn, Pete, Damian, Christine and Lyndsey who were on their way up Alt Coire Fhar. Pete, Damian, Nic and Carolyn then had an interesting time climbing an icy snow slope up to the ridge before doing some extreme sledging back down again… Sue and Sandy meanwhile were last seen heading back for another epic in the deep snow at Cairngorm. I haven’t heard from them since so I assume they had a good day…Pete

Day walk at Craster, Saturday 12th February

Christine organised a very enjoyable day walk on a cold but sunny day, with Simon, Penny, Janet, Kathy and Pete turning out. We headed along the coast past Dunstanburgh Castle and along Embleton Bay to Low Newton and the ‘Ship Inn’ which we can thoroughly recommend… with stomachs full we headed back the same way, finishing at the Jolly Fisherman in Craster for some more sustenance. Oh and the sun shone and the views were great. Pete

Helvellyn – 29th-30th January

15 members turned up at Helvellyn Hostel for an excellent weekend. Saturday dawned crisp and clear with a few patches of snow on the tops – an almost perfect day. A big group containing Penny, Lyndsey, Martin, Judy, Barry, Graham, Izzy, Kathy and Pete headed up toward Sticks Pass. The group split at Stang, with Graham, Izzy, Kathy and Pete heading up Raise and onto Helvellyn. Nasty ice and no crampons stopped us from descending Swirral Edge so we returned via Keppel Cove. Meanwhile the other half of the group had a massive walk, heading over most of the Dods, and dropping people by the wayside. Barry was reported to be ‘knackered’ by the end of it and even Josh could walk no further.

Another team of Andy, Roz, Simon and Vicky had a good day’s scrambling, doing a complicated route consisting of Eagle Crag, Grisedale, and Striding Edge, though I could be wrong… Meanwhile Mark and Lynda arrived just too late, and saw all their canoeing buddies disappear up Sticks Pass, leaving them with a nice walk around the lake via several pubs…

Sunday was cold and windy. Penny kept up her usual Sunday form in leading a group over Place Fell, and down to Howtown, where they met up with Mark and Lynda, before all heading back along the Ullswater lakeside. There are rumours that some other members when shopping and café spotting but there is no video evidence to prove it. Pete

Newton Aycliffe Wall, Tuesday 25th January

Although a regular event, this one gets a special mention as 16 members turned out to climb, belay, or just hang out and pretend to climb for several hours. Make sure you come along next time…. Pete

Fight the Flab Walk, Hamsterley, 28th December.

Sixteen fat DMS members turned up to walk off some of that turkey on a clear and sunny day which saw Hamsterley Forest at its best. Chairwoman Kathy Mao led us on a three hour walk which gave everyone a chance to have a good old natter. As usual, most people ended up in the pub afterwards. Pete

Borrowdale, 4th – 5th December

Penny, Lyndsey, Barry, Eli, Eli’s friend, Stuart, Lizzie, Michelle, David, Damian, and Pete showed up on this meet. I only showed up late on Saturday and left Sunday morning so I don’t know what went on. Lots of walking was done, and Barry had a good bike ride including an uphill bit over Honister Pass. Penny won at drinking, with Barry vowing to go home and practice a bit more. Pete

Dumfries and Galloway, 28-30 August 2004

This was one of my highlights from last year because it was a trip that had a bit of everything. All the usual activities took place, walking, mountain biking and canoing but there were more besides, namely cricket and beach volleyball!

Our campsite was not quite in the wilds, well to be honest it resembled a local park, however, this enabled very easy access to the local pubs, both of which were typically scottish; thick with smoke with rather attractive tartan carpets. We managed to overcome this and make ourselves at home.

After sampling the delights of the local curry house on friday, we all had a bbq on saturday night, which was a huge success despite our chairwoman, Kathy, nearly accidently fallling into Phil across the flames...

On bank holiday monday we then decided, due to lovely sunshine, to set off for the beach to relax after an active weekend of eating and drinking( and outdoor pursuits). It was a lovely end to the weekend. Looking forward to the next visit. Vicky

Aug 2004 - Hola,

On Saturday night many DMS members descended to party the night away at Simon and Vicky's house. Most of the evening activities took place in the garden, where the good weather even allowed Scottish dancing - "Strip the Willow" proving the runaway success! Chaos descended, but good fun appeared to be had by all, even if toes were trodden on!

......many thanks to Simon and Vicky for a fun evening. Adam

An afternoon out in Scotland 30 May 2004

Bit gutted about not being able to make Arran this weekend, so Sam and I decided to make the most of the sunny Sunday afternoon and head up to Dalbeatie in Dumfries and Galloway. Dalbeatie forest is home to one of the 7stanes mountain bike trail centres. Each centre has a number of trails of varing difficultly. Sam of course was set for the Black run which is the hardest. The 27km trail carves its way throught the forest, with plenty of granite rock obsticles such as the famous 'Moby Dick' or the 'Slab' - a 40ft monster rock (see photo's). I must admit that I nearly enjoyed the ride - but don't tell Sam! Phil

Arran trip, spring bank holiday, May 2004

Many were interested in visiting the beautiful island of Arran, but as the day drew closer numbers dwindled as a few people were put off by the dash to get the ferry on the Friday night after work and the bad weather forecasts (when is there ever a good weather forecast for Scotland!).

In the end, five hardy campers went across to Arran and apart from a drizzly start on Saturday morning, were rewarded with great weather, gorgeous scenery and some superb biking, walking and scrambling. The camping's pretty basic, but that just adds to the fun - there are rumours of some open air bathing in a secluded mountain stream after a particularly hot day's walking (we didn't have any showers), but I couldn't possibly confirm!

Saturday was a mixed activity day, with some opting to go biking on forest trails and others choosing to go walking. One adventurous walker thought she'd cut across from the saddle to the top of Goat Fell, thinking it didn't look far... however the 'rocky outcrops' marked on the map were a bit more of a serious scramble than she'd anticipated! But she survived to tell the tale and was rewarded with a cold beer (or several!) when she got back. Sitting round the campfire for the night (lit especially to keep the midges at bay, we had to search far and wide for the wood as lots of campers before us had obviously had the same idea) the tale was told and lots of adventure stories were swapped.

Sunday saw the whole group set off on an ambitious ridge walk, with a good climb at the start and some fantastic views. Later on in the afternoon some cut back down the valley and others carried on to complete the circuit - making the overall walk an impressive 12 hours! We had arranged to meet up at the Brewery restaurant for tea, but unfortunately missed last orders on the food so ended up with a very tasty chinese takeaway. Beats the mars bar and packet of crisps we've resorted to in the past!

Monday was an early start home for some and more walking or biking for others. All were tanned, tired and contented - a great weekend. Let's hope more can make it next time! Sue

The Glenrath Horseshoe - Peebles May 2004

What an excellent walk this turned out to be - challenging, scenic and empty of other people!! It would be a motorway in the lakes. The walk up to gain height was along an old drover's road through pleasant woodland initially and then open grassland with unfolding views of the Tweed valley.

The first top - Kirkhope Law gave panoramic views that were there for the next 6 miles of walking above 2,000 feet. The Peebles area is surprisingly remote and hilly with the Moffat hills clearly visible just down the road. A succession of rolling tops traversed out to Dun Rig with the best views towards Moffat and then back to Hundleshope with excellent panoramas of the Lammermuir Hills.

It was on this quiet leg of the walk that Josh disturbed a hoarde of mad looking hares. As they scattered in different directions he ran himself ragged deciding which ones to chase. Not too surpisingly, they easily outwitted Josh!! The descent finished in an immaculate drive with ornamental trees and hedges through posh estate grounds. I was absolutely amazed at the quality of the walking on my first visit to Peebles and would love to go back to explore more hills in the area. Penny

Kinlochbervie - 10/04/04 to 17/04/04

After a long drive, we were pleased to finally reach our typical crofters cottage in this small fishing port on the North West tip of Scotland. Even low clouds and dank weather couldn't hide the wild beauty of the area.

A dubious forecast and tiredness from the drive led us to choosing a gentle start to the week with a 6 mile moorland walk to the remote and unspoilt Sandwood Bay and its surrounding sea stacks. We even had some sun and Josh chased sticks all the way there and back! It was lovely.

The rest of the group arrived that evening and there was a glimmer of hope that the sun might appear again so we had a more ambitious day next, going up Culmore - the highest point of Inverpolly. Having navigated all the way up on compass bearings in 10 yards of visibility with rain, I detected a slight lack of enthusiasm with the rest of the group while huddled together at the top.

All was forgiven, however, when the clouds parted and we found ourselves with superb views of Suilven, Stac Polaidh and others looming straight up from the boggy territory all around. It took us an hour to cover half a mile cos we had to keep stopping to look at more revealed by the parting clouds - a good day after all!

Back to heavy rain again the next day so a combination of walking out to Farhaid Head via massive unspoilt sand dunes to very impressive cliffs and a tourist visit to the deeply carved limestone Smoo cave filled the day in amicably.

More rain the next day, so we left Janet and Josh curled up reading a book and took the sea canoes up an inland sea loch to view Britain's biggest waterfall from its base. The water coming off various cliffs was impressive enough anyway after all the rain, but the main event was a thundering wall of water.

It turned out to be a better day than expected and returning to Kylesku, the cloud again cleared. We found a high point on the road for panoramic views of the whole area - from Arkle and Foinhaven and over to Stac polaidh and An Telleach - absolutely fantastic!

Inspired by the previous night's views we tackled Quinag in sunshine!! The seascapes were awesome and it was possible to see North Skye and Torridon. It was the sort of mountain day you remember for years and showed the Inverpolly area at its best.

The last day was nice as well. Janet took Josh off for stick-throwing along the loch edge while we canoed round Loch Laxford. A colony of seals came out to play, popping up just behind the paddles as they do. I was lucky enough to spot a sea otter at very close quarters as well. We harvested the multitude of mussels which were delicious eaten fresh that night.

It was too nice to dash back to the cottage too early so we finished the day with a lazy stroll along the river banks below Arkle and Ben Stack. It was a perfect ending to a peaceful idyllic week. Can't wait to go back next year!!  Penny

North Wales - Easter 2004

Thirteen people turned up for this highly successful meet, staying at Betws-y-Coed Youth Hostel.

Friday dawned damp and drizzly and nine hardy souls headed to Llanberis Pass to attempt the Snowdon Horseshoe. On finding the car park full, temporary walk leaders Andy and Pete decided that an alternative start up the North Ridge of Crib Goch was a good idea while Paul and Michelle had an attack of sensibleness and headed off toward the Pyg Track up Snowdon.

Andy, Roz, Pete, Kathy, Becky, Nick, and Annette trudged off into the fog in search of the scramble up Crib Goch only to be confronted by a large cliff with a nasty looking gully up it. After a quick inspection, the intrepid Andy pronounced it 'OK', so everyone followed. Fifty feet later, things started getting tricky and definitely not the Grade 1 we were all expecting. After a tricky move, Andy, Pete, and Kathy decided that retreat would be sensible, before helicopters were needed.

After some more wandering around in the fog we eventually found the real North Ridge but spirits were low by then and we headed back with tails between our legs to find that Paul and Michelle had had a good walk up Snowdon and didn't get lost once. The remaining members of the meet including Phil, Sam, Iain and Christine showed up in the evening and a good time was had by all in a local refreshment house.

Saturday was still 'claggy' and the group split up. Andy, Roz, Pete, Kathy, Phil and Nick headed for the classic scramble up the North Ridge of Tryfan - along with everyone else in North Wales!

The route was memorable for the formation of the 1st Tap & Spile Scout Group with Scoutmaster Les. At the top, Kathy, Pete, Phil and Nick made the most of the empty scramble up Bristly Ridge (even better than Tryfan) and arrived on Glyder Fach for a photo opportunity or two. We were rewarded by the clouds lifting for the first time all day which meant we could find the third scramble of the day, down the Y Gribin ridge back to the road.

Jennings (Iain) and Becky got to grips with some climbing on Idwal slabs - and even found some dry rock - while Sam, Annette, Michelle, Paul and Christine had a good day's mountain biking around the purpose-built tracks in Gwdyr Forest.

Evening saw the 1st Tap & Spile continue to bond in drunken fashion in the hostel's 'quiet' room, with memorable games of 'spoons', '52 card splat', and even charades. Meanwhile, cardboard-box king Les lost his long-held title in a fit of giggles to Phil 'bendy-ankle' Askey, and French newcomer, Christine - a rematch awaits (luckily the hostel didn't ban us!).

Sunday remained cloudy. Andy and Roz found a great scramble next to the Black Ladders up onto the Carnedds; Nick led Paul, Annette, Christine and Michelle onto the Carnedds from the other side; Becky and Iain managed two classic VS climbs on Carreg Alltrem and even found some sunshine; Pete and Kathy had a third day in the fog up Snowdon via the Watkin Path and Phil and Sam headed off for some serious biking in Coed-y-Brenin.

Sunday night was the most 'refreshing' yet, with the 1st Tap & Spile wowing the bar with their figure-of-8 hip shaking and tales of raw chicken eating, attracting the whole pub's attention. After some stern words from the barman we sloped off back to the hostel to be confronted with equally stern looks from Mr Y-Front who caused Becky to have a hot flush!

By Monday most of the team were exhausted so they made do with some gentle biking and walking accompanied by some not-so-gentle pie eating at the legendary Pete's Eats.

"Les…where are the van keys?"  Pete

Photos

Aviemore Weekend - 06/02/04

"There were nine of us intrepid arctic explorers who set off for a great weekend in the snow including a high-level walk, skiing, and a low-level walk in the snow.

On Saturday morning I headed for the slopes with Sam, Phil and Paul. We rented skis and boots from the Day Lodge at the bottom of the ski area. Then we took the Funicular railway up to the top to be greeted by icy conditions, a temperature of minus 20 and wind speeds of 40 miles an hour. If you can ski at Aviemore you can ski anywhere apparently, although Paul, who had not skied for ten years found it hard going. What was Paul like on skis? Well you've seen Bambi on ice. Fortunately Phil was at hand to fill in as ski instructor and by the end of the first decent, he was skiing like a pro.

Our accommodation for the two nights was the Hunting Lodge, which is on the 'ski road' between Aviemore and the slopes. Being well stocked with beer and wine some of us decided to stay put at night whilst other more adventurous types set off for the pub, risking an enforced all-night lock in as the snow started to fall heavily. On Sunday I decided to opt for a low level walk around Loch an Eilean. We walked along wide snow-covered paths with tree-covered slopes on both sides and beautiful mountain views.

These paths form part of the cross-country ski route and several people swished past us with their skis and poles. It looked like hard work. Lindsey was practising her orienteering and kept us on track by doing some very complicated looking manoeuvres with her compass and map. Columbus would have been proud of her - we never got lost all day.

I survived the weekend and came back refreshed and recharged. It would be great to do it again some time."   Annette

"Deceptively blue skies encouraged four of us (Janet, Christine, Penny and Lyndsey) on an all-female expedition up Bynack More on the Saturday.

We enjoyed lovely snow and superb views across the Braemar tops until what can only be described as a tornado hit us! After 20 minutes of cowering behind a boulder in a white-out, Lyndsey and I were able to venture out onto the summit ridge where we got a fantastic view of the next storm rushing in.

We reconvened the cowering but for a shorter time, before descending through lovely big snowflakes into Glenmore Lodge forest - what a cracking day!

Only two of us ventured down to the pub - Josh (my dog) needed some time out of the car and wasn't bothered about the several inches of snow on the road. The pub looked rather astonished to have visitors!

The next day, all roads were covered in fresh snow so we walked locally round the back of Loch Morlich. It really was beautiful with more sunshine. The snow plough had visited by the time we got back, so we weren't snowed in and unable to get to work after all! The unanimous opinion was that it was worth the long drive for a fantastic weekend."  Penny

Photos

Allenheads Day Out - 01/02/04

"Sunday saw Penny, Michelle, Janet and me setting off from Allenheads' car park for what I believe is the club's first day walk. After a brief discussion about the route and navigation, we quickly decided that four is the perfect number for such a walk; one can read the map, one can hold the compass, one can look at landmarks and the spare one (me) can throw sticks for Josh, Penny's dog!

The day started in bright sunshine as we climbed towards our first 'height' of Green Hill (527m). Then it was past a shooting cabin (according to the map, which was actually a lorry container) and our second 'height' (483m). There were now mutterings about a bait stop so a halt was called near Pikeley Rigg, our third 'height' (444m). By this time we'd fallen off Michelle's map and were using Janet's prehistoric map (or to be truthful, they were using the maps; I was concentrating on the stick throwing).

After sarnies and a quick cuppa, we followed the track to Ladle Well where the track divided on the ground but not on the map. Naturally we expertly followed the wrong one to indulge in a bit of heather bashing and followed a compass bearing to get us back on course. It was here they foolishly let me take the lead and I discovered how much I drift off to the left when following a 'straight' line! Undeterred we met up again with the correct route just in time for the weather to change; for once the forecast was bang on. The wind increased, it started to rain and out came the waterproofs but we were on the home straight, so what did it matter?

We followed the swollen river back to Allenheads, discussing the relative merits of white-water canoeing and the lesser-known sport of white-water inner tubing!

Thanks to Penny for organising the walk, Michelle for navigating, Janet for giving me a lift and Josh for providing all the sticks. A great day out and who needs Munroes when you can have 'heights'?"  Nick

Postcard from Patterdale - Lake District 16/01/04

"Well, we all arrived, raring to go, on Friday 16 January... mostly raring to go to the pub, as the YHA (bless them) had been closed all week and the place was PERISHING! They did manage to provide pretty decent food however, for those of us too decadent to cook our own!

A pleasant evening was passed in The White Lion, planning the next day's adventures. Penny terrorising poor Lindsay about the dangers of magnetic rock in the Greta river prior to their kayaking trip (which I never actually saw, although Lindsay did - at uncomfortable proximity!) and Stuart attempting to convince anyone who could be persuaded that it really was a GOOD IDEA to don crampons and head off into the great unknown clutching one's trusty ice axe.... or someone else's and one crampon!???

Some of us thought better of this and opted for less onerous entertainment. Phil and Sam were spotted doing some light shopping in Keswick, after trying out Sam's new bike (Phil got the old one!). Rowan and Josh of course planned their day well, having charmed some daft b*****r to take them on a fantastic stick-throwing walk through the woods. Although they thought the stick throwing NOT of the highest standard and did have to keep herding up their adopted human!

Sunday morning dawned bright (and not raining): most were galvanised into action for an early start, photos taken, food packed etc, whilst those who were bug/beer-ridden had opted for an easy day. The rest of us headed into the hills. Some had lunch in a small barn, only to be caught by a huge group of walkers who thought the threesome in the hay were very amusing (who got wet at lunchtime however?).

I think most had a good day, even the rather wet but waving group with a bedraggled pooch which I saw on the way home. All in all a great weekend, lets have more!"  Christine

Photos

Mungrisdale Weekend 29/11/03

"A wet Saturday saw a split in the group. Hardened scramblers (well nearly!) to Dove Crag and hardened walkers (Ho Ho) to Skiddaw. For variety, the walkers approached Skiddaw from Uldale up Longside. The persistent driving rain wasn't too awful at first, but by the time we reached the top of Carl Side, people were being blown off their feet - well actually only the dainty Penny took a flyer!! There were also some concerns over dopey Josh near the edge (Josh being the dog) so we turned back - most to visit the launderette in Keswick to dry Lindsay's wet knickers. A very pleasant pint in the Dog and Gun rounded the day off.

Sunday was a lot drier as a slightly smaller group of walkers had a precarious slither up the wet rocks of Hall's Fell ridge on Blencathra. Cloudy on top, but a drop down the back led to an excellent lunch stop overlooking Sharp Edge. Fine entertainment ensued, via the binoculars, of a couple's ascent of the aforementioned ridge. They looked rather uncomfortable on slippery rocks with a big drop below. The afternoon was finished with the summit of Bannerdale Crag and for some, a stop-start slide on a bivvy bag back to the valley. For those interested in such matters, the dogs - Josh and Rowan - got on great!"  Penny

Mountain bike ride – Great Ayton, Yorkshire 15/11/03

"On the 15th November Simon, Phil and myself decided to go for a mountain bike ride starting from Great Ayton railway station. The going was a fast pace starting out along the road until we got to the bridleway to go up Roseberry Topping. We then started to slow down as due to the rainfall during the week the ground was muddy and slimy and it was also uphill. Not a big fan of uphills it turned into taking the bike for a walk while Phil and Simon gave a valiant effort in trying to cycle up the hill and failing.

We finally reached the top and the going was flat for a couple of miles along the woods until we reached a nice downhill that was a bit hairy with loose rocks hidden by leaves, but also good fun at the same time. It allowed Simon to give his new bike a good thrashing. We then headed into Kildale for a brief food stop and it was also a chance for Phil to see if he could escape to the tea shop for the rest of the afternoon, however we wouldn’t let him. So then it was onto another slog uphill, booooooooo!

Well after 19 miles of slimy mostly uphill tracks we finally made it back to the car just as it was getting dark. Well our first Saturday ride complete, it almost turned into a night ride, maybe next time it will. The day was then rounded off nicely with several pints of beer and a 10” pie at the Sally. Join us next time for a local ride - details will be given at next meet."  Sam.

Photos

Malham Weekend 01/11/03

"Twelve hardy souls turned up for a weekend of hostelling in Malham in the Yorkshire Dales. Upon arrival, a quiet pint in the King's Head quickly escalated somewhat, thanks to a group of over-friendly nurses from Leeds. By 11.30, the hostel curfew was a distant memory. However, things relaxed a bit when it became apparent that the hostel warden had just pulled one of the nurses!

Once out of the pub, the party spirit continued in the hostel common room. A guitar was found and strains of Ol' Macdonald filled the room. Self-loving monkey, ecstatic koala and rampant rabbit impressions rounded off the evening's entertainment.

Following a night punctuated by heavy snoring and having had a good old fry-up for breakfast, the group divided: one party off on a fourteen mile epic with "Mao Tse Tung", another looking for a mountain bike trail on Mastiles Lane and the stragglers off on a light jaunt round the nearby cove followed by lashings of tea and sympathy.

After a day of highly memorable walks and rides, the evening was a slower affair with gentle chat and hard-fought bouts of table-football sustained with nothing stronger than tea, before curling up in those somewhat undersized YHA sleeping sheets.

The next day, the sun rose over Malham - unfortunately we couldn't see it! The group split again: some heading for the gentle ascent of Pen-y-Ghent while the others went off to Gordale Scar (is it an eroded valley or collapsed cave?). For those of us that chose to go to Pen-y-Ghent, the wind and drizzle failed to dampen our spirits and before long we had negotiated the hill (and Josh's entrance to the café) and were soon homeward bound.

With this trip, a mould had been broken; thoughts, plans and effort had reached fruition; a mountain club for Durham had become a reality; we had truly reached the end of the beginning..."  Andy.

A joke from Malham: "A man collects tractor bits. His missus says: "You’ll have to choose – either the tractor bits or divorce me". The man thinks long and hard and then decides to sell all the tractor bits. A week later, the man and his wife go for a meal to celebrate their non-divorce. They’ve just sat down when smoke pours out from the kitchen. The man runs in and says: "Don’t worry". He breathes in deeply then blows all the smoke out the window. And all because he was an EX-TRACTOR FAN! The contributor has wisely exercised their right to anonymity for that one.

Photos