It is that time of year again when the sun es out and I dig out my climbing boots. On the 21st June 2008 a number of us scaled the biggest mountain in the UK , Ben Nevis.
Scaled may not be the appropriate term as it was more of a long walk , or stagger as we neared the top.However the trip back down was a great deal quicker as we had discovered an excellent pub at the foot of Nevis.Thousands were raised for good causes and we decided to make this an annual event.
The 20th June 2009 saw us climb in Wales.Stage two of the three peaks successfully encountered.
By arranging the walk on the longest day(20th June)we were of course guaranteed glorious sunshine and wonderful views. Or so we thought (see pictures)
The first half hour was fine then the heavens opened and the views were of clouds and more clouds.We were immediately cheered by the sight of the cafe half way up and suitably refreshed headed back into the monsoon.
At the top we were delighted to see the train arriving just in front of us.
Well we think it was the train - due to the rain and cloud we couldn"t see it however it sounded like a train.This emptied 50 (dry)tourists at the top who then took their places for photos and we had to stand in the rain until they finished.
Something not quite right there.
However it is a free country and they were entitled to the same views as us - none.
Cloud and rain everywhere hey ho!
Quick photo or two and unlike 2008 when we basked in the fantastic views of Nevis and the surrounding Scottish countryside off we went sharpish to get back down and dried off.
With everyones kind support I raised £3454 in 2008 for St Margarets and in 2009 £3858.
This year we head for the last of the three peaks - Scaffell Pike in the lake District.
Climb day is the 12th June when the Football World Cup is on.
We decided if we were heading to during the World Cup , as just failed to qualify(by a mile) the safest place to be is at the top of a mountain with no TVs.
To everyone that has donated over the last two years many thanks.
This years target is simple - to beat last years target.
This is being done for an excellent cause.
St Margarets have to raise almost £2 million a year in donations to provide care for people at a very difficult time in both their own and their families lives.
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: St Margaret of Scotland Hospice gets your money faster and, if you are a taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
Thank your for supporting the Hospice who do a wonderful job in very difficult circumstances.
This is the last of our three peaks( okay some people do it in 24 hours but that"s just showing off)
We hope to make this the most successful so far and someone has mentioned something called Kilimanjaro for 2011. I wonder where that is?
