Despite the weather forecast promising torrential rain, strong winds and a dash of hail, 21 walkers decided to brave the elements for a walk with BMC volunteers in the Peak District last weekend.

The walk had been organised by BMC Peak Area Hill Walking Reps Peter Judd and Cath Lee and was led by the two of them with assistance from BMC member Austin Knott. 

The aim was simple.  It was to enable like-minded people to get together an enjoy a day in the hills and to learn more about what members and potential new members with a hill walking interest want from the BMC.

The group comprised both members and non-members of the BMC.  Also present to join in with the fun was BMC Independent Director Brian Smith (and his monkey Malcolm). 

The route around Combs Moss just to the north of Buxton was chosen as it includes Combs Edge, one of the gritstone edges that the Dark Peak area of the Peak District is famous for.  It is also one of the lesser known edges with fabulous views, so it was good to be able to introduce people to an interesting walk that they might not be familiar with. 

The weather conditions on the day made the walk a real challenge, but with considerate guiding involving a few moderations to the route, the worst of the strong wind was avoided.  Even so, at one point everyone was staggering along the path trying to keep on their feet.  A video of the group would have been comical! 

On arriving back safely in the village of Combs everyone felt a big sense of achievement and satisfaction.  After removing muddy boots and wet jackets, the lovely open fire in the Beehive Inn lured everyone in and a good time was had enjoying a drink and a chat.

From comments of those who attended, there would appear to be a real appetite for more similar events to be organised for 2016, but preferably with better weather!     

Cath Lee, BMC Peak Area Hill Walking Rep

We want to say a big thanks to every BMC member who continues to support us through the Coronavirus crisis.

From weekly Facebook Lives and GB Climbing home training videos, to our access team working to re-open the crags and fight for your mountain access, we couldn’t do it without you.

Did you know that we've launched a U27 membership offer for just £1.50 / month? And with full membership from £2.50 / month, it's never been easier to join and support our work: 

https://www.thebmc.co.uk/join-the-bmc-for-1-month-U27-membership

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