The Big Freeze became the Big Thaw by the time this meet arrived. Any thoughts of ice climbing were shelved as the streams flowed freely through the valleys. What little ice remained in the gullies although looking pretty, was pretty awful to climb on. Snow conditions weren't much better...heavy wet snow making progress slow when breaking trail.

With hindsight, perhaps a run up Latrigg would have sufficed but committed to a look up Deepdale, we decided to enjoy it anyway.

The sensible ones, probably knowing better how to enjoy a good walk, set off up Hartsop above How, heading for Hart Crag. The team comprised Jackie, Dorinne, Lynne, Jane, Dennis and a welcome new member, Pete from Stocksfield. The reckless other lot got going at a good pace up the path to Link Cove, by-passing the routes on Greenhow End which were in poor shape. Latching on to another team's tracks ahead gave some relief from the problems of going, sometimes thigh deep in soft snow.

Below "Scrubby", the team split into 2: the high reckless, myself and Sue headed for Pendulum Gully and Dave, Joe and Josef chose a line up an open gully to the right. By this time the walkers had reached Fairfield Summit and were well on course to complete the Saint Sunday Crag round.

Pendulum Gully proved interesting, the snow reasonable and the belays good. The crux pitch without ice turned into a mixture of collapsing snow, rock and turf, which we treated with delicate care. The route easily maintained its Grade 2 status. It was thoroughly enjoyable, but as it involved all the paraphernalia of roped climbing, it made us slightly overdue back at the cars. (What's new?!....head torch..)

Thanks to members who patiently waited, hopefully reflecting on a grand winter's day on the fells.

Phillip Wilkinson ( Lakes Meet Co-Ordinator )