After a flurry of emails regarding food and late withdrawals, 10 of us eventually braved the dire threats of Storm Dennis and arrived at the George Starkey hut on Friday afternoon. The evening was split, some opting to self cater, others to try the charms of the White Lion.
Saturday started fairly gently (if a little early for some). Despite the weather forecast Paul E and dog had an extended walk to the summit of St Sunday crag, Geoff found himself at the foot of Striding Edge where he became involved helping a couple who’d convinced themselves that camping by Red Tarn was a good idea!
The meet leader had an ulterior motive, lunchtime football watching in the White Lion to follow a walk around Aira Force reached by car. The rest had a plan for a 3 hour circular walk via the Brotherswater Hotel. However, first one, then two found that the waterfall walk was favourable (it was raining by now). Eventually all 8 were loaded into 2 cars, transported to the car park and began. The falls were spectacular (pics on Facebook) but by the time the circuit was complete the rain was torrential and wind rising. Retreat to footy for me, Jo had cunningly forgotten her waterproof trousers and Chris, ever the gentleman offered to drive her back to the hut. The remaining 5 walked the hour and a half back passing Ullswatwer looking more like a choppy sea scape.
Although the communal main meal had been abandoned, starters were cooked and served by Jo and Chris and a range of puddings arrived.
A fairly early night ensued, good job as early starts were the order of Sunday. Geoff waited in vain for a friend due to arrive at 8am, dog and Paul went out for early trek, Paul and Vanda waited for family to arrive for lunch the rest went out for a walk on a gradually improving day with blue skies emerging.
Storm Dennis never really arrived, yes it was wet enough to fill the field behind the hut, yes it was a bit windy but nothing exceptional, no it didn’t stop us going out or getting home without problems. Too many of these dodgy warnings and people will stop believing them.
Thanks to those who made it, especially the cooks, sorry for those struck down by bugs. Better luck next time.
Cheers
Paul and Vanda
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