SUMMER 2014 | ISSUE 87 | GEORGEFISHER.CO.UK

New summer stock now in! See inside for a full round-up of new clothing and equipment

A LONG WEEKEND IN A LUXURY EXPEDITION-EQUIPPED LAND ROVER worth £580 (P6)

Flying above and Ramspholme Island. Photo: Stuart Holmes

TEA, CAKES & STEPPING CANINE CAFÉ MARK SEATON CRAG RATS BACK IN TIME CULTURE Attempts his first @georgefisheruk Early days of George Fisher Dogs, cafés and big wall climb /georgefisheruk becomes a film set pubs Page 22 Page 8 Page 14 Page 20 DESIGNED INSPIRATION FOR FOR FREEDOM A LIFETIME OF ADVENTURE Designed with salomon’s world-class athletes, s-lab trail running shoes and s-lab apparel deliver top performance without compromise. George Fisher director ANDY AIREY considers Salomon.com/s-lab what gets people into the outdoors

Photo: Jacqui Scott

s I write my regular piece for the Update it In my case the person who made the difference National Park Week Aoften strikes me that I’m preaching to the was Donald Angus; he lived (and lives) in An annual celebration of all the amazing places, converted; if you are reading this then you will Threlkeld, my home village. As lads, my friends people and things to be found within the have had some interaction with George Fisher and I spent our lives outside - playing football, boundaries of the 15 UK National Parks. This year, Ltd and it’s almost certain that you will have an running, swimming, messing about and generally it takes place from 28 July to 3 August with interest in the outdoors. Like me, you will have getting dirty, however it was Donald who events in every National Park as well as the annual discovered the pleasure exploring the world introduced us to the . At that photography competition; visit nationalparks. outside, experiencing the simple delights of time he was one of the original Lake District gov.uk/visiting/national-parks-week-2014 for full outdoor activity and finding joy in sights and National Park Wardens and, for reasons only information. sounds along the way. known to him, at weekends or holidays he allowed Derwentwater Regatta us Threlkeld lads to jump into his Land Rover and On 9-10 August, showcasing the National Trust’s How many people out there haven’t had the join him on his days at work. ‘50 Things to Do Before You are 11 ’; as well as a opportunity to appreciate our world? Imagine if we traditional summer fair there will be opportunities could speak to them, and introduce them to our We spent hours walking the fells with him. We to climb a tree, navigate with a map and compass, adventures… also rebuilt walls, put up bridges, cleared paths, installed benches, plenty of litter-picking… lots find a geocache, dam a stream, make a mud pie… In the 1990s I did some work with the now defunct of pretty hard graft but ultimately great fun! let your imagination run wild! Full details will English Tourism Authority relating to walking Donald taught much about the Lakes and took us appear on nationaltrust.org.uk holidays. They realised that the varied landscapes to places we’d never been to before, but the most Yes, it’s in my interest (and that of George Fisher and diverse cultural heritage of England offered important thing he gave us was an appreciation and the UK outdoor economy) to encourage more the perfect setting for walks and walking-based of being outdoors. people to venture outdoors, but it’s also good for holidays. Part of their research tried to understand the greater health and wellbeing of the UK. The why some people walked and others didn’t - the Time moves on - I still love being outdoors but natural playground we have at our disposal could idea being that if they could discover what turned it’s now an integral part of my work as well as be the vital ingredient in getting Britain moving an individual into a walker then they would be my lifestyle, and introducing new people to the again, towards health and fitness. If we could able to encourage more people to visit the English great outdoors is central to the development of inspire those elements of the UK population who countryside and grow the tourism economy. our business. It’s difficult for one shop in Keswick to make a huge difference but we do our bit; we were unaware of what was within striking distance The strange thing was they couldn’t find any also support other organisations in their efforts of their home, or were unsure how to take their difference between the two groups - other than to inspire new entrants. In May we were actively first steps towards outdoor adventure, imagine the CHECK OUT THE NEW walkers walked, and non-walkers didn’t. On involved in the Keswick Mountain Festival, central difference we could make to thousands of lives. digging deeper it was discovered that at some to which is the inclusive, introductory nature of Why wait for someone else to do something - YOU SALOMON S-LAB RANGE stage in a walker’s past something (or more many activities and presentations. can make a difference, YOU could be their catalyst… usually someONE) had acquainted them with the who can you take out on your next (and their first!) AVAILABLE AT outdoors… and they’d never looked back. It could As the year progresses we look forward to a outdoor adventure? have been a family member, friend, schoolteacher number of other events aimed at sparking an or scout leader - someone who enjoyed the interest in the outdoors. Watch out for… outdoors made the connection for them. www.britainonfoot.co.uk PHOTO : PHOTO DAMIEN ROSSO 2 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 3 WEIGHT, AND WHAT WARP STRENGTH, SCOTTY

NOT TO TAKE Our equipment and accessories buyer JON WICKHAM looks at new climbing products Soft goods buyer LISA BERGERUD on mountain marathons

Photos: Midway on LAMM 2014, Strathcarron (Torridon) Photo: Arc’teryx

’ve just come back from taking part in the Lowe Day two, after all the food weight and sun cream s you may have noticed, staff and customers As well as this feature, Black Diamond’s attention to Don’t forget we are continuing our ‘Money IAlpine Mountain Marathon in Scotland. This entails has gone, should be easier but there’s always Aat George Fisher have increasingly fallen detail is evident throughout the units. Aluminium for Old Rope’ initiative to promote safety and being self-sufficient for two days, and (depending fatigue after the day before to contend with - am I in love with a Canadian brand called Arc’teryx. beads cover the cable stem, giving both the environmental responsibility in climbing. If you on how competitive you are) walking, trotting or selling a mountain marathon to you? I hope so, as Though well known for its beautifully made flexibility to insert the cam in to awkward cracks, bring a worn climbing rope in to the shop, you will running, navigating between marked checkpoints. they’re brilliant events to take part in and test your clothing, the company actually started out whilst maintaining their strength and durability. get 15% off the price of a new climbing rope. This It’s a fun way to get out there and explore, plus navigating skills. making climbing harnesses and recently it has Additionally the cam lobes, beads and sling are all is helping to reduce the amount of worn out ropes very satisfying when you do find the checkpoints. again revolutionised harness design with its colour coded to allow quick selection when you’re in circulation and ensuring that they are recycled We don’t manage to take part in these events own in-house technique called ‘Warp Strength gripped! rather than going in to landfill. Returned ropes are I’ve always enjoyed these events, spending the every year as it’s takes too much time out from Technology’. This involves taking a conventional turned over to Green Peak Gear, a charity which night with two of us squeezed into a one-man tent, our family and work, however we have managed climbing sling and, by hand, teasing out all of the specialises in turning old climbing ropes in to early mornings in magnificent Highland locations. to apply the ‘less is better’ principal to camping fibres that run across it, leaving just the ‘warp’ functional new products like dog leads If you’re really lucky the weather can be kind - or and we’ve spent many nights with our children, fibres. This dramatically reduces the weight and and doormats. thick mist (and midges) can be swirling under your from a very young age, wild camping. I do insisted bulk of the sling whilst maintaining its strength door... on toothbrushes, but on more than one occasion and increasing its flexibility. These remaining a foot has gone into a stream during the brushing fibres are then spread out into a broad belt, Packing is interesting. How much do you actually process - Smartwool socks are warm when wet! laminated, and sandwiched between a lightweight need? It’s a balance of what you want to take extra, layer of wicking fabric and a highly durable, water As the children have become older we’ve become Haglöfs LIM III Q Jacket versus the extra weight. There’s a compulsory list resistant soft-shell outer. of essential items - tent, survival and sleeping more adventurous and taken to epic cycle touring adventures. Now our children are old enough to bags, spare and waterproof clothing, food and The process creates a harness that is lightweight be taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award cooking equipment, first aid kit, map, compass and and supple, yet strong and durable, while giving Black Diamond Offset close-up Scheme and have the know-how to pack two whistle. High on the list of my priorities is food, exceptional fit and comfort. Pop into our Climbing essential plastic bags; if your feet are wet at the and food is heavy. If I leave my toothbrush (sorry Department in the basement to take a look for end of day one, put dry socks on when you get into dentist but its only overnight) and deodorant yourself, these are harnesses that genuinely stand the tent. Then if you need to get out, put the plastic out (it’s only a night, smelling might make me go apart in comfort and performance – you can feel bags over your feet thus keeping the dry socks faster) I can take extra food. After getting sunburn the difference. a few years ago I do now take sun cream, but all dry. The hard part is putting the wet socks back on weight counts when you’re trying to run carrying it. in the morning (dry socks are lighter to carry and An interesting new product in store is from those there’s every chance they’ll only get wet again) My Arc’teryx ‘Warp Strength pioneers of climbing technology, Black Diamond. Technology’ harness This year I was happy to have my Haglöfs LIMM preferred wet sock is Smartwool! Their new X4 Offset camming devices use GORE-TEX Paclite and Montane Minimus pants, but a variety of specialist features to create a cam Get out there, learn to navigate and take your kids was even happier to slip my Skins compression that will protect you where others can’t. The offset camping; they love it. tights on in the evening for addition warmth. Food shape comes from the two sets of camming lobes weight can also be saved with specialist high- being of different sizes on each unit, allowing the calorie dried food where you just add hot water; cam to be placed in to non-uniform cracks. This pudding too, after all that expended energy. allows the X4 Offset to work where other cams Montane Minimus Pant Black Diamond Camalot Offset range wouldn’t, increasing your safety whilst climbing.

4 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 5 WIN A LONG WEEKEND IN WIN! A LUXURY EXPEDITION-EQUIPPED LAND ROVER WORTH £580

e think you’re going to love this issue’s prize competition. Scotland Overland Ware experts in fitting out expedition-equipped Land Rovers to a standard that will get you across the world’s wildest terrain. But they’re also great for touring the UK in self-contained style! And Scotland Overland are offering a fantastic prize of the use of one of their Land Rovers for a long weekend (four days/three nights) starting from Edinburgh or Peebles.

Scotland Overland’s vehicles include roof tents and all the equipment needed for up to four people to explore and camp in the wildest parts of the country. Land Rover Defenders enable access to places that ordinary campervans can’t go, allowing you to set up camp anywhere; on the beach, or deep in the forest. The roof tents allow you to set camp in under five minutes and provide comfortable accommodation with a view. Everything needed for wild camping is included: just turn up with your toothbrush and go!

The Defender is revered worldwide as possibly the greatest off-road vehicle WIN A LONG WEEKEND IN A LUXURY ever, as iconic and recognisable as the Mini or the Beetle. Their adaptability and EXPEDITION-EQUIPPED LAND ROVER ruggedness combines with modern comforts on these low-mileage models to provide self-sufficiency and dependability for visiting the remotest parts of the 1. Fill in your details 2. Detach the slip 3. Hand in at George Fisher, or country. post to: George Fisher, 2 Borrowdale Road, Keswick, CA12 5DA 4. OR go online and enter at www.georgefisher.co.uk All vehicles are five-door Defender 110 models identical in colour and specification to those shown in the photos. They benefit from the power and efficiency of Land Rover’s current generation diesel engine and 6 speed Name: manual gearbox. The luggage area is fitted with a full Mantec cage system for Address: the efficient storage of the equipment provided, and allows ample space for personal luggage. ‘Checker-plate’ armour on the bonnet and front wings allows for maximum versatility.

The prize will consist of one of Scotland Overland’s vehicles with all of the standard equipment as set out on their website (scotlandoverland.com) with Phone Number: insurance for one driver. The hire will be from Friday-Monday (4 days/3 nights) with pick up and drop off anywhere in the Edinburgh area (including the Email address: airport) or from their base in Peebles. Scotland Overland can provide secure [ ] Tick here if you do not want George Fisher to send you future details of news and parking for your own vehicle. The winner will be free to choose when to take promotions. the hire (subject to availability) at any time up to 30 June 2015. The vehicles [ ] Tick here if you do not want Scotland Overland to send you future details of news and can accommodate up to four adults, or two adults and three children. Scotland promotions. Overland’s standard terms and conditions will apply which can be found on George Fisher and Scotland Overland will not share your details with anyone else. their website, but the main provisions are that the driver must be aged 25 or over with a full UK or European driving licence that has been held for at least Terms & Conditions 1. The promotion is only open to UK residents aged 18 or over and excludes George Fisher and Scotland two years. Scotland Overland will require a damages deposit of £750, which will Overland employees and their immediate families. be repaid in full upon the return of the vehicle in an undamaged state. 2. A valid email address is required to enter. 3. Two winners will be selected at random at the end of the promotion (midday 16 August 2014). 4. Entries may be made in store, by post or online at georgefisher.co.uk and received Entry deadline is 16 August 2014. by midday 16 August 2014. 5. Photocopied entries not accepted - entries only on original pages from The Update. See entry form for full terms and conditions. 6. The winners will be contacted within 7 days of the draw. In the event that a winner has not responded within 14 days of notification then the promoter reserves the right to reallocate the prize to a reserve winner. 7. The winners’ name and county will be posted online at georgefisher.co.uk 8. There is no cash alternative. 9. By entering the promotion entrants confirm that they have read and agree to be bound by these terms and conditions and by the decisions of George Fisher, which are final in all matters relating to the promotion. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of the prize. No correspondence will be entered into. 10. George Fisher will not be responsible for the non-inclusion of entries as a result of technical failures or otherwise. Proof of submission of entry is not proof of receipt of entry. 11. Winners name and county will be available by writing to George Fisher with a stamped addressed envelope after the closing date. 12. The prize weekend must be taken before 30 June 2015, and is subject to availability. 13. Scotland Overland’s standard terms and conditions will apply, which can be found at: scotlandoverland.com

6 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 7

airzone advert_george_fisher_210x297.indd 1 18/06/2014 09:36:07 TEA, CAKES AND CRAG RATS

DES OLIVER remembers his early days of Borrowdale climbing

Almost without fail, the Keswick lads would assemble on the Market Square on a Sunday morning on push-bikes and head to Seathwaite Farm for tea and cakes supplied by Mrs Edmondson. She was the wife of the farmer, ‘Ancient Stan’, who had a son ‘Young Stan’ (a champion runner) who had a son ‘Younger Stan’, who had a son that became ‘Baby Stan’. The farm was flooded occasionally and I recall seeing the ground floor under water with Young Stan and his wife Nancy leaning out of the bedroom window inviting us in for a cup of tea (we were in a Mountain Rescue vehicle).

After tea and cakes we would head up Styhead, wearing nailed boots, heading for Napes Ridges and quite often stopping off at Kern Knotts to climb the Crack or Sepulchre – this was before the layback block fell off. At Napes, the Needle was a must – I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve sat on the top block, once under the glow of a full moon! After a day’s climbing it was back to the Gunter Franz abseils off Kern Knotts farm for more tea and cakes.

In Borrowdale the locals called us ‘crag rats’ but we mixed with them quite hen you get to my age you tend to dream and reminisce of climbs of well. I recall being taught the ‘Gay Gordons’ by a farmer’s wife at the legendary Wdays (long) gone by. My began on – in the rain, Rosthwaite Dance. Talking of nailed boots, there was a farmer who had an naturally – then moved on to , Rock and Dow Crag. In between, artificial lower leg and, when gathering sheep on the fell, to stop slipping he a lot of time was spent on the crags in Borrowdale with the ‘Keswick Lads’ had ‘clinker’ nails added to the stump. and George Fisher in charge. We came under Col ‘Rusty’ Westmorland and his Borrowdale Mountain Rescue Team (later to become Keswick MRT). We Most of the Keswick Lads are now “a-climbing the clouds complete with their formed Keswick Club with its ‘head office’ in George Fisher’s halo and veil” (to quote a verse from a climbing song) but the memory of them home of Gateys Court (now demolished and part of Keswick’s lost history). all lingers on. George Fisher becomes film set

Our shop front re-created for the film

hen you are next in George Fisher take a look at the photograph behind Wthe counter near our boot fitting area. It shows the shop as it was originally built over 100 hundred years ago for the renowned photographic and climbing family, G.P Abrahams and Sons of Keswick. The original photograph The shop recently revisited its past when it featured in a short scene from a film that tells the story of the Edwardian climber Siegfried Herford, regarded as the greatest climber to have lived up until his tragic death in WWI. You can find out more about the film at www.gablemedia.com/siegfried . Look carefully in the window of this image taken from the film footage and you will see one of the original Underwood folding plate cameras used by the About the work of the Mountain Heritage Trust at Abraham brothers to capture their iconic images of pioneering Lake District www.mountain-heritage.org climbing. The camera and story of Siegfried Herford is currently featured in an exhibition by the Mountain Heritage Trust at the recently refurbished Keswick Museum.

8 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 9 NAVIGATION UPDATE

Our GPS expert ROGER HILEY on the latest developments

Fell Runner ascending Swinside in Spring. Image: Stuart Holmes

here’s plenty going on in the Navigation world use a little residual power to speed up the satellite Finally, we’d encourage you to download the latest Tat present. The new Satmap 12 has now given fix. Brilliant if you use it a lot, but potentially version of Garmin Base Camp as it now offers the us an updated screen resolution to put right some expensive if you just use the unit for occasional ability to print out maps. As always, advice on of the complaints about the old unit. The only walks. downloading and use available by phoning the complaint now is that they can’t make enough to shop. The second tip applies to all GPS units. If you get a deliver to the shops! long line at the start of your ‘track’ that connects So if you have an old GPS that’s past its best; if the walk with your home or your accommodation, you need a Satnav for the car, enjoy road cycling, The Garmin series goes from strength to strength, it is because you didn’t wait to get a signal before need help with navigation generally or have bought with the Oregon 600 units far outselling everything clearing the tracklog. When you’ve arrived a Mac computer and didn’t realise you could get else. Call in for that demo you promised at the start of your walk, take a mapping on it…then give us a call. We might just yourself. Many of you did during moment out – maybe put your have the answers. the Keswick Mountain Festival rucksack on the ground and and took advantage of the place the GPS on top while do Garmin introduction and special up your boots. Once the GPS ROGER’S WEBSITE HITS Festival offer - even though shows a grid reference, press Photography by Alex Buisse. the event is over, the value still MILLION MARK the ‘reset’. Garmin’s quick-start remains. Remember that these feature mentioned above will Roger Hiley’s walking website units have help here, so there’s swings loweswatercam.co.uk recently passed the MOUNTAIN HOOD mapping on the screen, will also and roundabouts in most milestone of a million site visits, which is a do in-car navigation, turn-by- FOUR POINT situations. By the way, don’t pretty amazing achievement. Roger and his wife FABRIC Clothing with real purpose. turn navigation on bikes and HOOD ADJUSTMENT place the GPS on the car roof Ann set up the website in May 2000 as a record will project their maps onto a Alpinism is an obsession. It can place relentless demands on both as you’ll probably forget it of their walks with friends and family in the Windows or Mac computer. No NAPOLEON SLEEVE POCKET your body and clothing system. Precisely tailored to move with your and have to return to collect it Lake District. Its regular updates with photos, CHEST POCKETS need for internet or extra map body and engineered to work with its physiology, MONTANE® clothing before re-starting your walk! walk reports and other items of interest give an purchases. AQUA GUARD® VISLON® ZIPS and equipment will meet the toughest demands, helping you stay Wherever you go, enjoy your insight on the world as seen from the English ARTICULATED ARMS comfortable and focused for longer. Two quick tips. First, if you don’t walks and have fun with your Lake District. Make sure you check it out! A-LINE HAND POCKETS intend to use your Garmin unit GPS. TECHNICAL TAILORING for a while, take the batteries ‘RATCHET’ CUFFS out. Not that they will spoil, it’s PENNY CORDLOCKS just that Garmin units continually Garmin Oregon 600 ALPINE ENDURANCE eVent® JACKET Extreme conditions alpine mountaineering shell montane.co.uk 10 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 11 with Car Free Walks We’ve linked up with carfreewalks.org, the website for APEX ACHIEVEMENT people who love walking but want to reduce their impact WALK OF THE MONTH on the environment, to bring you this family walk. RAB wins Polartec’s annual APEX Award THIS MONTH’S WALK: TO Image: Roger Hiley, loweswatercam.co.uk Hiley, Image: Roger

A LINEAR, FULL-DAY MOUNTAIN GET ACTIVEOUTDOORS WITH BRITAIN ON FOOT WALK STARTING AT BUTTERMERE. Loop or linear? Linear www.britainonfoot.co.uk Maps: OS Explorer OL4 rom March to October, the extensive Lake The English Lakes: NW area Britain on Foot is a new initiative with one clear FDistrict bus network opens up (almost) all objective; to encourage more people in Great corners of the park to walkers. While it is easy to Total Distance: 19km (12 miles) Britain to get active outdoors. It’s all about head up the famous peaks, the real joy is found Total height gain: 1,600m (5,250ft getting fitter, healthier and happier! This could in starting in one valley, getting up high and mean walking to work, hill walking, geocaching Start: Buttermere, OS Grid: NY175169 finishing somewhere else. This route is a classic - with the family, trail running or even Winston Image: Ben from Buttermere, head over , , Bus: The Honister Rambler to/from mountaineering. Take a quick look at the Britain Hay Stacks and Great Gable before finishing in Keswick on Foot website britainonfoot.co.uk where you n June, fabric manufacturers Polartec for the main parts of the pant, whilst a lighter Seatoller. With most of the day spent up high, can upload your own activity and share your Unsuitable for: Buggies, wheelchairs announced the winners of its annual APEX version has been incorporated to aid mobility and there’s no better way to explore the . experiences with thousands of other like- I Award, which recognises the finest Polartec- flexibility. minded individuals. It’s a socially interactive, based products available in the shops this winter community-led site that’s continually updated. “The Polartec APEX Award is all about recognizing and next spring. i So take your first step and sign up today! excellence in innovation, function and design, and THE ROUTE encouraging this type of collaboration with our Rab, flying the flag for the UK, picked up an award team as Polartec continually expands the limits for its new Neo Guide Jacket and Pant made of what fabric can do,” says Allon Cohne, Polartec 1. Buttermere, OS Grid: NY175169 7. Haystacks, OS Grid: NY194131 11. Napes Needle, OS Grid: NY209099 with Polartec NeoShell. The judges selected the global marketing director. Take the Honister Rambler to Buttermere. Ask for a day About 2 km (1.25 miles) from 6 About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 10 winners based on the style, function, workmanship, ticket that will enable you to go home from Seatoller. ...and a spiriting climb back up to Hay Stacks. From Hay A monument in the world of UK climbing - many of the and overall design of garments with the most Stacks, continue heading southeast to Blackbeck Tarn. early climbers honed their skills on this striking finger of 2. Past Buttermere, OS Grid: NY173163 innovative and appropriate uses of Polartec fabrics. rock. Head past the needle towards Styhead Tarn. About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 1 8. , OS Grid: NY215119 Hundreds of clothing and accessory brands from RAB Neo Guide Jacket Take the path across the fields to Burtness Woods. It then About 2 km (1.25 miles) from 7 12. Styhead Tarn, OS Grid: NY221099 climbs steeply through the woods. The flatter ground leads to Brandreth, the high point of About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 11 around the world submitted their most innovative the ground around . Take the path (again well At Styhead, a bridleway follows the gill down towards products and 39 APEX winners were selected 3. Bleaberry Tarn, OS Grid: NY165154 trodden) towards . Seathwaite. ranging from lightweight next-to-skin layers, to About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 2 breathable ‘puffy’ products for active warmth using The path meets Sourmilk Gill and heads on to Bleaberry 9. Green Gable, OS Grid: NY215106 13. Taylorgill Force, OS Grid: NY229109 Polartec Alpha synthetic insulation, to waterproof/ Tarn - one of the great viewpoints around Buttermere. About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 8 About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 12 Worthy of a flapjack moment. The classic ‘little brother’ hill of the Lakes - 801m, but You’ll need little excuse for a stop by this stage, so take a breathable garments using Polartec NeoShell. vastly overshadowed by big brother to the southwest. moment to enjoy the majestic Taylorgill Force waterfall. 4. Red Pike, OS Grid: NY160153 Rab’s Neo Guide Jacket is designed as an all About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 3 10. Great Gable, OS Grid: NY211103 14. Seathwaite, OS Grid: NY235121 weather garment for climbing, ski touring and First top of the day is Red Pike. From here, it’s many About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 9 About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 13 mountaineering. The Polartec Neoshell fabric joyous hours of high-level walking. One of the Lakes’ classic tops, and the final high point The hamlet of Seathwaite sits at the southern end of the keeps you warm and dry and has a soft, supple of the day, which weary group members may be pleased valley. Pick up the Allerdale Ramble path, rather than 5. High Stile, OS Grid: NY169147 ‘handle’. The construction of the garment features to hear. From the summit, there is a direct path down walking along the road. About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 4 two different types of Polartec NeoShell; a flexible to Styhead Tarn, but if you can manage it, take the Follow the distinct, but well-maintained (by the National 15. Seatoller, OS Grid: NY245137 torso, and extra reinforcement on the shoulders, southwest path to visit Napes Needle. Trust) path along the crest of the ridge to High Stile. About 2 km (1.25 miles) from 14 elbows, cuffs and hips. RAB Neo Guide Pant Finish at Seatoller for the bus home or, even better, get 6. , OS Grid: NY180139 The Neo Guide Pant is the most active waterproof the bus tomorrow and spend a night camping in this About 1 km (0.62 miles) from 5 beautiful valley. shell trouser that Rab offers. An extremely durable From High Crag, there’s a bit of a drop down to version of Polartec NeoShell has been chosen Scarth Gap...

12 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 13 BRINGING ORDER TO ANDREW’S THE TRAVEL UNIVERSE WALKING CLINICS

Eagle Creek is on a mission to get you organised Andrew Stanley’s in-store podiatry clinics are busy as ever

ur walking health clinics continue to be a huge success, with Ocustomers benefitting from the professional medical advice of podiatrist Andrew Stanley (The Rebound Clinic) who runs our in-shop Rebound Lower Limb Injuries Clinic.

People want to ask about those difficult-to-solve walking and running problems. Many simply need advice regarding more appropriate footwear, supportive insoles, basic exercises or more advanced physiotherapy. Others opt for specific treatment at our in-shop clinic or in Andrew’s main location in Settle. People are often amazed that pain and discomfort can be eased, or even eradicated from just one consultation.

Due to the success, Andrew decided to extend the format. On selected dates The Rebound Clinic runs normal treatment clinics in the mornings, and free advisory consultations in the afternoon in our boot room. Ring to or all travellers, the same question arises. Let’s take a look at some examples, and how they book your slot on 01729 825900 (strongly recommended) or turn up on the FWhether you’re planning an overnight trip can make your life a lot easier. day and wait your turn (may take some time!). Note – These consultations or extended getaway, you’ve got so much stuff are advisory and do not include any treatment, services, equipment, kit or CUBES - clothes, toiletries, laptops, phones, cameras, appliances. Next dates coming up: 19 July and 2 August. itineraries, guide books and so on. “How do I pack Our Cubes are perfect for clothes: tees, shorts it all in?” If you think that Andrew could help with your foot or leg problems, why and more. They come in a variety of sizes and not come and see him? If you suspect you already have a biomechanical options, including two-sided versions that allow Well, you can cram it together, like many people do, problem, simply book in for treatment at any George Fisher morning clinic. you to separate clean from dirty clothes, as but that makes travel a lot more cumbersome than You can also have treatment at the main Rebound Clinic in Settle if this is well as expandable cubes. They are also water- it needs to be. It’ll also wrinkle your clothes, crush closer or more convenient. resistant and designed to minimise wrinkles. documents and potentially damage your electronics. Plus you’re stuck with a disorganised mess, making FOLDERS it difficult to find what you need on arrival, slowing you down at the worst possible time. Our packing folders fit up to 15 shirts, trousers or other clothing items, keeping them compressed, There’s a better way to pack and avoid these neat and organised within your luggage while PAINFUL WALKING? Pack-It Specter Half Cube headaches, with the Pack-It System from Eagle also providing wrinkle resistance. Creek. It’s a simple system that eliminates common packing challenges. With smartly designed packs, SLEEVES cubes and folders that divide your stuff into cleanly arranged sections within your main luggage, the Our garment sleeve is built specifically for longer system makes it easier for you to find what you garments and formal wear, keeping them packed Made in Nepal. need, when you need it. neatly, resisting wrinkles and allowing you to easily hang the garments upon arrival. If you’re a frequent traveller, you’ll know that a Just like Us. little bit of organisation goes a long way. Losing COMPRESSION SACS any item causes serious stress. Did you leave it at home? Did it fall out of your bag? Did someone steal Gain up to 80% extra packing space with these it? The Pack-It System helps relieve these worries clever compression sacks – no vacuum needed! Just pack, zip, compress and you’re done. by organising clean clothes and dirty laundry while Pack-It Specter Garment Folder making the most of your space, so you can pack The Eagle Creek Pack-It System. Bringing order to Now available more. the universe, one bag at a time. The Original Pack-It System is a range of practical in store folders, cubes, sacs and toiletry bags allowing you You can win £100.00 worth of Eagle Creek to segment and organise your gear so everything Pack-It products in our latest online stays to hand. Then there’s the Pack-It Specter range competition, check out our Facebook page. of ultra lightweight organisers and digital device Stop painful walking before it stops you. The Rebound Clinic can diagnose your sleeves, constructed with durable, water-resistant condition then provide treatment and an silnylon, the same fabric that’s used in ultra light ongoing programme of care. tents and backpacks. Plus, the easy-to-see-through WWW.REBOUNDCLINIC.CO.UK translucent materials make it easy for you to 01729 825900 identify what’s where. Pack-It Specter Shoe Sac 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE HELPING WALKERS!

14 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801

Rebound Clinic GF Advert Quoter page.indd 1 20/08/2013 16:06 CANINE CAFÉ CULTURE STAFF PROFILE This issue featuring LIZ SMITH GRAHAM THOMPSON, Technical Editor of Trail Magazine is also a fully-qualified pet behaviour counsellor. This month: dogs, cafés and pubs. i, I’m Liz and am one of the newest and youngest members of the team! H I joined George Fisher in May 2013 when I moved up from Bristol.

I love the outdoors, especially jogging, and really like talking about kit and and ask where you can sit with your dog. Sometimes working in an environment where I am selling the gear I use… apart from GPS and you can only sit in one area, or you and your dog gadgets, but that’s another story! The downside of the job is being constantly may be welcome if you keep your dog under control tempted into buying new items. I must learn willpower… and no one else complains. What I enjoy most about working here is the people who have helped me settle Having found your table and promised to keep your so well in the Lake District. They are a really friendly, caring bunch and we dog under control, then stay focused on your dog, enjoy a right good laugh! I have been on some great fun days out and walking as now is make or break time not only for your lunch adventures since I arrived, including a brilliant walk up the Northumberland stop but potentially every other dog owner who coast. For me, nothing beats the freedom of having a rucksack on your back, visits this pub or café. filled with food and being out ‘in it’.

Try to choose a table that is away from the door Before I go, my other love is football - I’m a lifelong Liverpool and Bolton and tucked away a little. Dogs will always be more Wanderers fan. If you ever fancy a bit of banter, or a more refined chat, you’ll reactive if they are near a door, as they cannot find me either on the ground or first floor of the shop. predict who or what will appear next. The result will be that they may remain anxious about what might appear every time the door opens and frustrated if they cannot get to them quick enough to check them out.

Even the most relaxed and friendly dogs need to be kept on lead as not everyone wants then wandering around, even if the owners of the café or pub don’t mind. So clip the lead on and tie it around your waist or perhaps tie it to the table if the table is heavy and not going to be dragged about by the dog.

Keeping the dog settled under the table is a training game. You can use individual treats and give these to the dog every few seconds and then with longer time gaps all the time he is settled. An easier method is often to give the dog a chew toy filled with food, such as a hollow rubber Kong toy with a squeeze of cheese, some hot dog sausage or even peanut butter and marmite inside. Give the dog a signal of ‘settle down’ so he knows what to expect and he will learn to stay under the table enjoying its chew toy. BORN If your dog is startled then redirect him back to his chew toy, remind him to settle down and reward him in Photo: Cumbria Tourism / Moy Williams for doing as requested. Of course if your dog cannot control himself and you are unable to control him t the end of a walk, there’s nothing better than ‘Dogs Welcome’ signs exist in shops, pubs and cafés. then take your leave, rather that cause people or Asettling down in a pub or café with your four- the owner to complain. You may wish to seek help So how can dog owners encourage even more pubs NATURE legged friend beside you, snoozing under the table. from a pet behaviour counsellor if your dog does not and cafes to welcome dogs, and how can we ensure settle of course, but with a little professional help Many walkers plan their routes around the location that places like Keswick remain dog friendly well into most dogs and their owners can become welcomed of pubs and cafés, so they can fill up on food and the future? It is of course a two-way arrangement as members of the canine café culture. NEW RANGE drink while taking in the scenery. Thankfully, many dog owners need to make sure they are welcomed INSTORE NOW countryside areas welcome dogs too, which means with open arms by owners of pubs and cafes, who they can come along too and enjoy some tasty treats themselves need to be aware of the needs of the or a refreshing slurp from a water bowl. canine community and their owners. Graham Thompson is the Technical Editor of We’ve taken the merino sheep’s miracle fibre and created a warm, breathable Trail Magazine. He also an MSc in Companion Firstly it is very important to respect the pub or café The Lake District is particularly well placed to Animal Behaviour Counselling and is a Full owners’ position on dog access, as through previous clothing system, so you can enjoy nature the way nature intended. welcome dog walkers as Keswick received the most Member of the Association of Pet Behaviour experience some owners may feel they just don’t nominations from the public in the Kennel Club’s Counsellors, a Certificated Clinical Animal want to risk it again. So if you have a dog, find a Explore our collection now at George Fisher. 2012 Open for Dogs Awards, and took the lead to be Behaviourist and he is on the Animal Behaviour café or pub that does welcome you, rather than test crowned top dog in the Dog Friendly Town category. & Training Council Register of Clinical Animal the patience and tact of other establishments. If in You only need to walk through Keswick to see how Behaviourists. many happy dogs there are, and also how many doubt, take a walk inside without your dog in tow icebreaker.com Icebreaker is sustainable, renewable, pure merino clothing from the Southern Alps of New Zealand 16 Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight 017687 71801 17 APPOINTMENT WITH THE CAPTAIN SHORTCUTS Our man in Chamonix, mountain guide MARK SEATON, sets out on his first ‘big wall’ climb. MAGNIFICENT MEINDL RAB AND n May, Meindl invited two GEORGE FISHER IGeorge Fisher staff members to pay a visit to their factory Carolyn (L) and Carol at Meindl EQUIP NATIONAL PARK at Kirchanschoring in Bavaria, Germany. Carol Suddaby (customer eorge Fisher was contacted by the Lake District National Park services Manager) and Carolyn Little (boot floor footwear fitter) were Authority, which is increasing the number of guided walks it offers, the lucky chosen ones, and spent the day there being shown around the G especially targeting families new to walking. In particular they wanted factory to see how Meindl’s hand made boots are produced and finished, advice about walking safety so we ended up approaching RAB to see if and given a talk about the 300-year history of the company, its traditions they would supply five of their Group Shelters. These are designed to be and innovations, their pursuit for the best quality products, and their used as an emergency shelter or for planned stops in bad weather, and passion for making reliable boots for outdoor people worldwide. The day happily RAB were pleased to be involved. ended with a trip to Salzburg where Meindl boots were tested on a walk up the Kapuzinerberg, a beautiful wooded hill in the middle of the city.

Overall, Carol came away from Meindl amazed that the boots don’t cost twice as much, having seen how much time, care and attention to detail goes into each pair. The enthusiasm, dedication and integrity surrounding brothers Lukas and Lars Meindl’s approach to boot making is second to none and this El Capitan: The Nose takes the obvious prow line between light and shadow Heading up the fixed ropes is the main reason why we, at George Fisher, are confident and happy to MAY THE supply their footwear. FORCE BE ur attempt to climb that iconic route, The Nose During the previous days we had climbed a certain Before we could get to grips with the Oon Yosemite’s El Capitan, did not get off to a distance and fixed ropes up the first eight pitches, to disappointment (something that is part and parcel WITH YOU good start. We left the campsite at 6:30am and the start of a feature know as the Stove Legs. These of mountaineering) we had to sort the practicalities immediately got stuck in a traffic jam. In front are giant cracks, which were originally climbed by of getting the pig and ourselves safely down. It ay 4th is Star Wars Day (May the 4th be with you, “May the force be of us a car had hit a tree and landed on its roof, jamming sawn-off stove legs in place. ‘Fixing’ means made sense to jettison the water in order to reduce Mwith you”, etc). Never ones to pass up a Facebook opportunity, we blocking the road. No one was injured, apart from we had left a giant 200metre rope in place so that weight. This task was far more difficult than it THE posted a special Chewbacca image with prizes for anyone brave enough the drivers’ pride (the idiot had been texting at the we could climb up quickly using special ‘ascenders’ sounds because I was suspended several hundred to come in and repeat the phrase to a staff member. In the end we had 15 time). It was not a good omen. We lost a good hour, which clamp onto the rope - rather like cleats on metres above the ground with nothing to stand to 20 people saying the Star Wars words, and Facebook got really busy. In and in that time the heat in the valley had soared. yacht rigging. on. Eventually, after some spectacular acrobatics, TILLEY HAT fact Chris Blackwood from GORE-TEX was moved to write, “In my opinion, I eventually lowered the pig down to the ground this is the best retail marketing campaign that I have ever seen in the UK!”. As the saying goes, everything in America is big. Our plan was to climb the fixed ropes to our high to join the others. We were all disappointed but at GUARANTEED FOR LIFE Yosemite in particular is home to ‘Big Wall climbing’ point and then haul the pig. Jeff set off up the rope least we were safe and sound and still in a position and El Capitan is the best example of Big - it is over first. It was as he arrived at a small overhang that he to try again sometime in the future. And as a 3,000 feet of vertical rock. called down to say that he had torn a muscle in his bonus, we had not been eaten by bears. back and that he was in considerable pain. I headed The climbing here is completely different to climbing up the ropes to meet him. Jeff’s face was glum. in Europe. The method is to pack everything into a When he tried to sit in his harness, he was in agony. bag, and haul or winch it up after you. These haul We were going to have to descend and abandon our bags are usually nicknamed ‘pigs’ because they can attempt. SHEEP be a pig to move. OUTRAGE There were three in our team. Me, and my two great American friends Jeff and Faerthen. Jeff had made o, it’s not what you think… Andy Airey was in fact stuffing the one of the very early ascents of The Nose 40 years Are you a confi dent walker? NIcebreaker Lucky Sheep Dip on Saturday morning during the Keswick ago, was returning for his anniversary climb and had Mountain Festival. We would say the sheep looks a bit shocked, however. invited me along. It was to be my first experience of Want to widen your experience INDISPUTABLY THE FINEST Big Wall climbing. into alpine mountains? OUTDOOR HAT IN THE WORLD. PRIZE WINNERS So we eventually parked the car and wrestled the pig out of the car boot (or trunk, as the Americans HANDCRAFTED IN CANADA SINCE 1980, The winner of the two-night break at the Hotel from Issue 86 is INTERNATIONAL FOR MEN AND WOMEN WORLDWIDE. call it). It contained 36 litres of water, climbing gear, MOUNTAIN GUIDE Based in Chamonix below Mont Blanc, Mark Seaton Mark Ryan from Berkshire. Many thanks to Lake District Hotels for this ropes, sleeping bags, food, plus underneath we had off ers guiding services for all mountain activities. superb prize. attached a portaledge. As it sounds, it is a portable These include alpine mountaineering in the summer The Garmin geocache prize winner from Issue 86 is Reg Gay from ledge which can be erected in minutes, and when set season, and off -piste skiing and ski touring in the Yorkshire. up you can sleep on it. winter. With over 20 years experience Mark off ers options from single day one-to-one instruction, to Staying locally? Ask your accommodation provider for a George Fisher All this weighed over 100kg, and it was left for me Walk Plan and you could be a winner. The winner of this quarter’s ‘Walk multi-day programmes for small groups. Tel: 01326 574402 www.Tilley.com carry it to the foot of the climb. As approaches go it Plan Draw’ is Sid Horn, who was staying at the Sunnyside Guesthouse was not very far - about half a mile - but still, 100kg Email: [email protected] in Keswick. Sid and the guesthouse owner both get £50 George Fisher is the most I have ever carried. www.markseaton.com vouchers.

18 19 ZOCA WOMEN’S RUN FIND THE RIGHT ® DATE ANNOUNCED GORE TEXPRODUCTS SOLUTION

EVERY DAY VERSATILITY

Low to mid activity level for one or more days

Weather Conditions: variable, rain and snow

Hiking Trekking Skiing Freeriding ZOCA performance clothing is designed specifically for women who love being outdoors and active. Using technical fabrics and manufactured to exacting standards in the EU, ZOCA’s ranges are developed with integrity and offer long-term value. Focusing on the FAST PACE, Run-Bike-Hike categories, garments offer multi-purpose benefits... as HIGH well as looking great off the hill too! INTENSITY Styled to reflect different women’s body types and individual preferences, ZOCA’s garments are distinctly feminine, and full of subtle, functional details. Colour palettes are drawn from nature. Based locally, yet stocked in premium stores throughout the UK and beyond, ZOCA’s founders are particularly proud to be represented in George Fisher – a favourite destination of theirs from childhood. High aerobic activity level done in a day Following previous year’s successes, the Women’s Run is due to take place on Sunday 21 September at 11am. Starting and finishing at the George Weather Conditions: cool, mixed weather Fisher store, women are invited to take part in an event that aims to be fun and inclusive.

There will be ZOCA running clothing to be won, goody bags for all, plus the chance to be part of a ZOCA focus group – the first 10 registrations secure a Ski Touring Mountain Running Mountain Biking top worth £50.00 for free.

Welcoming refreshments on return to the store, and a good deal of support should encourage all to join in – whether it’s your first run, or you’ve been ENGINEERED doing this for years. Former elite athlete and triathlon champion Christine FOR THE Johnson will be on hand to offer tips and advice. EXTREME Registration at sleekerswim.co.uk or in store at George Fisher - £10 in advance or £12.50 on the day.

Published by George Fisher Limited, 2 Borrowdale Road, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5DA Tel: 017687 72178 Website: www.georgefisher.co.uk Email: [email protected] Intense activity level for multi days or weeks The publishers of The Update would like to thank all contributors to this edition, noting that the opinions expressed in submitted articles are those of their authors, and not Weather Conditions: extreme rain, snow and ice necessarily of George Fisher Ltd. Editor: Clive Allen | Design: MountainCreative.co.uk Printed by Reeds Printers Penrith (Tel: 01768 864214)

Mountaineering Freeriding Ski Mountaineering

Printed on 100% Recycled Paper gore-tex.com © 2014 W. L. Gore & Associates GmbH. GORE-TEX, GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY, GORE and designs are trademarks of W. L. Gore & Associates

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