This weekend Anna and I headed to The Downes hut to meet up with friends from our old climbing club in London. Paul headed south from Barnsley and also joined us. The turn out from London was less than hoped, but it was a small and select group: (Colin, Paul, Martin, Petra, Anna and me ) that headed up from the hut to froggatt on Saturday morning.
We started at the Sunset Slab area, where everythig is at the right angle to build confidence as Anna and I hadn’t been on grit for quite a while.

Petra on What's up Doc?

Anna on Green Gut

Paul on pedestal Crack

We moved along the crag, and it was soon apparent that a Ganley was within our grasp……. all that was left was a bit of top-roping action and watching Petra on her third ever lead power up Chequers Buttress.

Petra makes the long reach on Chequers Buttress

Ian, wondering where to go next on The Great Slab

Anna high up on The Great Slab

On Sunday we escaped the crowds at the Downes hut by heading for the peace and quiet of Gardoms Edge.
Here the routes are a lot less climbed: greener, steeper….. Bloody Grit!!! It soon brings you back down to earth when you think you’re getting the knack!!

Colin on Finale Groove

The ganley of the day before soon took it’s toll and we headed for tea and cake………

Petra scoffs a well-deserved piece of Victoria Sponge