After so much inactivity and gloom it gives me pleasure to say that there is an IMC meet at the Roaches in Staffordshire on 9th – 11th July. 

The Don Whillans Memorial Hut (aka Rockhall Cottage) Don Whillans Memorial Hut (thebmc.co.uk) is booked for our use on the nights of 9th & 10th July. The hut holds 12 people but current Covid restrictions have limited this.

From 17th May the BMC anticipate allowing occupancy of the hut by 6 people from different households or 2 families and I see no reason this won’t increase to the full 12 people that it usually holds on 21st June. Therefore we can be reasonably certain that 6 IMC members can stay in the hut and there is also a very good chance this will increase to 12 people. If we fill it in either scenario it will only be £22 per person for 2 nights, bargain!

Beginners are welcome on this meet just let me know in advance so we can make sure you have someone to climb with.

Obviously everyone’s situation is different and some people might wish to camp this year. Unfortunately the usual basic campsite right next to the hut is closed so you might have to look further afield:

This is a camping and caravanning club site  https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/staffordshire/leek/leek (I think Mike has stayed here).  And there’s also a Caravan club site Blackshaw Moor Club Site

Please email to tell me the following:

• If you wish to stay in the hut or to camp nearby.
• If you want to have a meal at Ye Olde Rock Inn on Saturday evening (to hear tales of brave onsight’s and dramatic lobs) –  this is currently still closed but plans to open for the summer.
• Your travel arrangements – I’m not sure about car sharing yet but if you are up for it (and restrictions allow) then let me know.

Adam