Joint Meet with the FRCC

by Jude Jones

A very successful joint meet was held on 2-4 February between the Fell and Rock Climbing Club (FRCC) and AAC(UK) at The Salving House, the FRCC’s hut in Borrowdale. Along with nine FRCC members there were six guests from the AAC(UK) attending. Meet organisers were Kate Woodrow and Jude Jones.

The weather over the weekend was mainly dry but strong winds restricted the altitude of walks. However, on Saturday three brave walkers visited Dubb’s Bothy, Brandreth and Green Gable. Nearby, a sole adventurer summited Dalehead then enjoyed the comfort of the Honister pass cafe. The biggest group of nine ascended via Grains Gill, lunched at the Esk Hause shelter, then returned via Langstrath. With random gusts of wind pushing walkers towards the ravine and 20km of path, it was enough to fill the day. Watendlath was also visited by a couple who wanted a shorter day.

On Sunday, Watendlath was the objective for the biggest group of walkers who wanted to do a few hours before driving home. It was chosen with the ever-strengthening wind in mind. We were relieved to come out of the trees near the south end of Derwent Water, as the wind was roaring through the bare branches. However, as we crossed the bridge to get to Manesty the wind was so strong it nearly blew someone’s trousers off! Needless to say, the top of Castle Crag was avoided.

Overall, the meet was a great social occasion too, with a communal meal of “bring and share” items on the Saturday night. Maps were laid out as favourite alpine holidays were recounted and future events/aspirations were discussed. As the chat flowed, people found common links and interests, and the ambition of the meet fulfilled itself; to foster new friendships and plan new mountain adventures. Certainly, two AAC(UK) hut-to-hut tours now have a few more participants signed up and FRCC will probably gain two new members. A win/win situation!

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