The February 2025 RAFMA meet took place in the stunning Lake District, with accommodation based in Chapel Stile. On arrival, attendees were greeted by a somewhat flooded car park - remnants of the previous days’ heavy rain. While one brave soul attempted to nudge their car into a precarious space just above the waterline, the rest wisely opted for drier ground closer to the nearest pub - an excellent decision!
Saturday: A break in the weather
Despite a week of horrendous conditions, the weekend welcomed attendees with patches of blue sky and even some attempts at sunshine. The twelve members split into four groups: two climbing and two hillwalking.
Our MCI for the weekend, Innes Macdonald, led a party of four climbers to Raven Crag for some multi-pitch action on Middlefell Buttress and Evening Wall, where they honed their skills before abseiling back down. Meanwhile, Mr Anstee and the Days opted for more trad climbing further around on Raven Crag and before later reconvening with the hillwalking groups.
New members Hannah and Florrie teamed up with JB and Meike for a circular hike up Crinkle Crags. Their ascent rewarded them with spectacular views, though they soon found themselves enveloped in cloud and battling the wind. Sensibly avoiding the notorious ‘Bad Step,’ they descended via The Band, finishing their walk in classic RAFMA style—by seeking warmth, refreshments, and a roaring fire in the local pub. Hot chocolates in hand, they soon found themselves restored for the final leg back to the accommodation.
Neil Innes and Bob Appleyard also took advantage of the improved conditions, tackling Pike O’Blisco via Wrynose Fell. Their efforts were rewarded with breath taking views across the valley before returning to the bunkhouse to prepare for Bob’s eagerly anticipated evening talk on ski touring.
Ski Touring: A Window into Alpine Adventures
Bob’s presentation was a highlight of the weekend, drawing both in-person attendees and online participants keen to hear about his ski touring experiences in the Alps, Norway, and Greenland. Those in the room had the added benefit of examining some of the specialist kit he has accumulated over the years and quizzing him on expedition planning and techniques.
Of course, no RAFMA weekend would be complete without the legendary cheeseboard making an appearance - and appear it did, in vast quantity! Which raises an important question: should there be an official ‘RAFMA Cheese Leaderboard’? This author would certainly like to know!
Sunday: A Tactical Retreat to Kendal Climbing Wall
Sunday’s forecast promised 70-80mph winds and torrential rain. While RAFMA members are not known for being fair-weather tourists, common sense prevailed and those remaining opted for the indoor climbing wall at Kendal.
Once again, Innes took charge, delivering expert tuition on preparing for winter hills, offering invaluable insights into resources, techniques, and best practices. This was followed by a short refresher on belaying, tying in and using auto-belay systems before moving on to lead climbing -an exciting new skill for many in the group.
With long drives ahead, the remaining attendees eventually packed up and set off for their various homes and units, bringing another successful RAFMA weekend to a close. While winter conditions had not materialized, the meet had provided valuable training, great company, and (of course) plenty of cheese!
Meike Gfrarer
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