14/09/18 – 17/09/18
We have had a few meets at Skern since the first in 1984, but this might well be the last as Andy had sold up. We were welcomed by Russ initially and later by Andy, at a full and busy weekend. Later, after dinner, we and the late comers rendezvoused in The Beaver where plans were hatched for the morrows potential rib trip to Lundy. Some of us had been before, so consequently backed off so the first timers could make the trip. The weather was to deteriorate for the Sunday, so there was only one trip planned, although M Clowes, C Goulden and G Hughes made the later trip across on the ferry from Ifracombe, having less time on the island than the rib sailors.
Consequently, on the Saturday, the remaining climbers, G Peppit, S Goodier, G Sampson, E Sampson (who wasn’t well) and D Armin, found themselves at Baggy Point with the tide in. It was thought an ascent of the classic Scrattling Crack might be on, but after abseiling down the slab it was found the base was sea washed. So David climbed the diff of ‘Moonshot’ on a top rope, whilst Syd led George and Ed up the slab severe of ‘Smile.’ After lunch, Ed decided to sleep in the grass and take more tablets whilst the others ambled over to the slab of Ben. A serious down climb took them to the base of the slab, and Syd led David (who by now was pushing his grade experience) and George up the pleasant route. Time was getting on, so we drove back to Skern, and prior to the dinner at 7 pm, on walking down to the Beaver saw the rib cross the Bar and enter safer waters from their adventurous trip.
On Sunday, whilst the main walking party were getting wet Hartland way, Andy, George, Martin P and Ed had a local walk walking Andy’s dog, which turned out longer than anticipated and trashed George’s feet. The dog enjoyed it. Martin C went home early Sunday.
Geoff P
Derbyshire Pennine Club 