Not a great year for memorable events but a satisfying one, as my total has increased by 52, mainly in the Graham category within travelling distance from home.
Returning bedraggled from Meith Bheinn on a dirty wet day in August with no visibility, I approached the summit of Creag Bhan (10D) and it soon became evident that this was about to become a wee gem. Sparkling white rocks enclosed a very large bath (or small swimming pool) beside the cairn. I am sure the views would be wonderful too.
About midway between the trig point and the martyr's obelisk of Cliffe Hill I picked up a £5 note. My first instinct, after looking round for its golfing owner, was to hand it in at the clubhouse. However, this was prosperous Sussex, so after two nanoseconds of wrestling with my conscience I considered that it may belong to a fellow Marilyn bagger in need of a pint. I would like to take this opportunity to let it be known that I still have the note and am willing to return it to the rightful owner on production of approximate date of loss and correct serial number.
Although not at a summit, I visited the trig pillar indicating the birthplace of General Roy near Carluke. It is reassuring to know that a character who noted important physical features and then mapped them over 250 years ago is still remembered today. Do you think a triangulation pillar would be a fitting tribute to be erected in Everton to our latter day General Roy?
My most dogged or longest day on the hill in 2004 was a visit to Sgurr na Stri from the Glen Brittle road over Sgurr an Fheadain, down to Loch Coruisk in a June snow shower, climb the Marilyn and then return over Druim nan Ramh in fading light. I was too exhausted to join in celebrations in the bar with my colleagues that night - now that's a first!
