The Joy of Socks

the theUpdateUpdate SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75

SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 georgefisher.co.uk New summer stock now in! See inside for new clothing and equipment THE JOY OF SOCKS

Staff at George Fisher still only just recovering after over a thousand eager outdoor enthusiasts besieged their shop during the Keswick Mountain Festival weekend. A joint promotion with outdoor brand Smartwool made free socks available to anyone with a copy of the Festival programme, and the news soon got out. “It was the talk of the town”, says George Fisher director Andy Airey. “Word spread like wildfire among locals and Festival-goers alike, and we had queues outside the door every morning as we opened. On Saturday we went through over 200 pairs in one hour!” Demand meant that stocks were exhausted by Sunday, but Andy is full of praise for Smartwool for their generous support. “It was one of those ideas that just worked, and there’s now a thousand walkers out there who agree they make very fine socks! Smartwool’s Steve Booth (in red T-shirt) meets the Saturday morning queue “Personally I’ve had involvement behind the scenes since the Festival started, and it’s been great to see the event build its reputation year by GPS unit. Plus on the Saturday expert podiatrist Andrew Stanley from the year. The more reasons we give visitors to spend time exploring Keswick Rebound Sports Injury Clinic was on hand to advise about foot problems. the better, so this time around we decided to add a few extra attractions (see our big news about Andrew on page 17! – Ed) of our own.” In-store events included a busy hands-on workshop with map experts Visitors tried out demo gear from Salomon for free - boots, shoes and from the Ordnance Survey, plus visitors could find out everything they waterproofs – and also tried a free Geocache trail, borrowing a Garmin wanted to know about GPS and digital mapping with Garmin. WIN A SALOMON JACKET

When it comes to lightweight equipment, If you’re going out on the hills this summer – and at Salomon are the experts. And they’ve the time of writing it’s looking pretty changeable – surpassed themselves with the launch of a you couldn’t do better than to include the Mountain Crossing in your summer wardrobe. new lightweight hiking garment this year, called the Mountain Crossing Jacket. In summer you have the luxury of being able to carry much lighter weight garments, and the Mountain Using their own ClimaPRO waterproof/ Crossing Jacket packs down incredibly small in your breathable fabric and clever design the rucksack. However you also need confidence that Mountain Crossing gives lightweight your jacket will withstand the worst summer storms, protection complete with hand-warmer and here the Salomon jacket scores as well. pockets and hood, yet weighing in at just 290g. Turn to page 3 to find out how to enter our great new competition with two Salomon Mountain Crossing Jackets up for grabs!

phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight georgefisher.co.uk 1 t Try017687 a flavour 71801 •of weekdays the lakes: only visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk

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MOUNTAIN CROSSING HIKING JACKET SALOMON.COM

“MOUNTAINS ARE OUR STADIUM. OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE DEVELOPING FOOTWEAR, CLOTHING, AND PACKS FOR ADVENTURE RACING AND TRAIL RUNNING IS GIVES US UNIQUE EXPERTISE IN BUILDING LIGHT AND FAST HIKING PRODUCTS.”

“MOUNTAINS ARE OUR STADIUM.”

2 Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk

78790_GF_update_75.indd 2 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 A MOUNTAIN CROSSING THAT’S PERFECT FOR EVERYONE Your chance to win a Mountain Crossing Jacket from Salomon

Salomon is well known for its lightweight trail footwear here in the UK, and they’ve put this light-and-fast expertise into their Hiking range too.

The Mountain Crossing Jacket is a very lightweight and packable waterproof/ breathable shell garment with stretch panels in key areas – as they say, “the right technical material in the right zone, for the right performance”. It’s very much at the lightweight end of the spectrum too, weighing just 290g.

The Mountain Crossing is made using Salomon’s own fabric, ClimaPRO, which is what they call a ‘2.5 layer’ fabric. This combines a tough outer shell fabric with the waterproof/breathable barrier inside, plus a raised pattern applied over this. The raised pattern makes 2.5-layer fabrics lighter and more compressible while still protecting the waterproof barrier. The jacket cut is ‘relaxed’ rather than a technical tapered shape, and you get Notable with the Mountain Crossing Jacket are the ClimaPRO stretch a full storm-flap front closure plus a couple of zipped hand-warmer pockets. panels around the base of the hood and the centre of the upper back. In The fabric is soft and light, which makes the Mountain Crossing perfect as a combination with the ‘Smart Hood’ design this means that when you cinch summer ‘stick it in your pack just in case’ bit of kit as it packs down small. There the hood down it moves easily as you move your head. are men’s and women’s versions of the jacket, both of which retail for £130.

WIN a Salomon Mountain Crossing Jacket

1. Fill in your details Name:

2. Detach the slip Address:

3. Hand in at George Fisher, or post to: George Fisher, 2 Borrowdale Road, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5DA Phone Number: 4. OR go online and enter the promotion at www.georgefisher.co.uk Email address:

Womens Mens Size:

6. The winners’ name & county will be posted online at Tick here if you do not want Terms & Conditions 1. The promotion is only open to UK residents aged 18 or www.georgefisher.co.uk George Fisher to send you over, and excludes George Fisher employees and their 7. There is no cash alternative future details of news and immediate families 8. By entering the promotion entrants confirm that they have read and agree to be bound by these terms & promotions. 2. A valid email address is required to enter 3. Two winners with correct answers (one male, one conditions and by the decisions of George Fisher, which are final in all matters relating to the promotion. Failure Tick here if you do not want female) will be selected at random at the end of the promotion (midday 31 September 2011) to do so will result in the forfeiture of the prize. No Smartwool to send you 4. Entries may be made in store, by post or online correspondence will be entered into. future details of news and at www.georgefisher.co.uk and received by midday 31 9. George Fisher will not be responsible for the non- inclusion of entries as a result of technical failures or promotions. September 2011. 5. The winners will be contacted within 7 days of the draw. otherwise. Proof of submission of entry is not proof of receipt of entry. George Fisher and Smartwool will not In the event that the winner has not responded within 14 days of notification then the promoter reserves the right to 10. Winners name and county will be available by writing share your details with anyone else. reallocate the prize to a reserve winner. to George Fisher with a stamped addressed envelope after the closing date.

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk 3

78790_GF_update_75.indd 3 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 GEAR ROUND-UP Andy Airey reports on how his holiday gear fared

Let me tell you about my summer holidays… well, a week in May in As a true British man abroad I travelled with socks in my sandals! The socks Mallorca. Maybe not the holiday itself, more about some of the clothing were Smartwool PhD Light Crews in denim (£16.25) which tone with the and equipment we took with us. I’m often asked what I use doing Arroyos, so I didn’t look a complete prat! More importantly they’re 77% various activities, so here are my current top travel favourites. Merino wool so my feet also benefited from the complete all-round comfort my clothing offered. Heading for the airport I always wear the same thing - merino wool. If you On arrival in Port de Pollenca we weren’t disappointed are going to spend hours in the same set of clothes, nothing performs better! by the weather, it was hot so shorts and T-shirts Merino wool acts like your own personal air-conditioning - it will keep you were the order of the day. In the evenings I had a warmer than either cotton or man-made fibres, but will also cool you down selection of shirts - favourites this time? Royal when things heat up. Robbins Cool Mesh Short Sleeve Shirt (£35), the 3-dimensional mesh-weave in cotton gives a I wear Icebreaker’s Tech-T Lite (£40) made from their fabric that has great natural ventilation, perfect for hot 150-weight fabric, feels like a top-quality cotton tee weather. Salomon’s Tracks Shirt (£40) also saw plenty of but offers so much more comfort. Over that I layer wear partly because it’s made from Salomon’s soft up with Icebreaker’s best selling Tech Top (£75) handle, quick drying Actilite… but mainly because and their Quantum Vest (£90). The Tech Top is Salomon Tracks short- I like the checked print! Both brands offer these sleeved shirt a long-sleeved zip-neck in 260-weight Merino, it fabrics in women’s styles, in fact Royal Robbins do a huge array of Cool Mesh looks reasonably smart and gives great warmth products for women… and we carry most of them. for its weight; the Quantum vest is in the same weight material and adds core insulation when Oh, did I mention it rained? Really rained! Fortunately I’d stuffed my old Icebreaker Tech Top required. These three pieces give great comfort Haglofs Oz Paclite in my bag – this is one of my all-time favourite waterproofs. however long you spend in airports, planes and The garment has changed slightly since I bought mine but we still stock its buses. We carry the same styles for women but Fiona, my wife, usually starts new re-incarnation, the Ozo Pullover (£200); a 180g GORE-TEX layering with a Nature Cami (£30), still in 150-weight Merino Paclite smock. It’s designed as a waterproof running/biking but designed as a really feminine strappy top. shell but I’ve used mine for just about everything, Mallorcan rain included. Legwear is always a pair of convertible pants from The North Face; we currently stock the Horizon Falls for men One final equipment highlight – the Osprey Sojourn 80 and Horizon Valley for women, both at £50. These trousers travel bag (£160), a wheeled bag that swallows vast are perfect for travelling – made from an ultra-quick- amounts of kit. This is a very practical piece of luggage drying nylon ripstop they have partial elasticated waists that becomes a backpack if necessary, compresses down if for prolonged comfort and zipped security pockets for not completely filled and always looks distinctive on an Osprey Sojourn 80 wallets and passports. airport carousel! The North Face Horizon Convertible Pants It sounds like I went on something of a spending spree prior to leaving the Depending on our destination, footwear could be anything from Teva sandals, country. Not so; I’ve gathered all these favourites together over the years. In Salomon XA Pro trainers to La Sportiva shoes; for the Mallorca trip I took a fact I only bought one thing from George Fisher before heading to Newcastle pair of Keen Arroyo sandals (£85). The Arroyo is something of a hybrid shoe- Airport, a book. The Fellwalker by Michael Wood, which I’d seen it on our cum-sandal, it’s fairly enclosed (great for walking on stony paths) but with shelves for a little while but bought on a whim as I was leaving. What a great plenty of open vents (great for ventilation). It is also one of the few read! It’s ages since I read a complete book in a day, but a tightly written sandals that will take replaceable footbeds – important for thriller set against a Lake District backdrop proved to be a real page-turner! I me because I always wear Superfeet insoles thoroughly recommend it. or custom orthotics.

Keen Arroyo sandal

4 Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk

78790_GF_update_75.indd 4 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 ECO PRODUCTS Jon Wickham highlights some new products that help reduce our environmental footprint

The new Petzl Core head torch battery (£30) enables you to ditch non-rechargeable alkaline batteries, and instead simply recharge your head torch as and when you need it. Petzl’s rechargeable Core battery pays for itself after The Core battery also around 10 charges gives your head torch increased and customisable performance, and will pay for itself within about ten charges, so it saves on your wallet as well! The battery will retro-fit to many of Petzl’s head torches, so there’s really no excuse for not getting one. Patagonia’s Common Threads programme recycles garments Finally, although all our George Fisher plastic bags are recycled our George Fisher Jute Bag (£2.50) means you should never need another plastic I am writing this the day after our annual litter pick on Catbells. carrier bag again, and with each one sold we donate 50p to the Fix the Fells This well-known local fell draws everyone from families to hardened project run by Nurture Lakeland. mountaineers for the fantastic views it gives of Derwentwater and the Northern Fells. Being a honeypot has a downside, however, as For more info on our environmental policy and how we try to support a unfortunately its slopes are the last resting place for many a drinks more sustainable Lake District, please go to georgefisher.co.uk and look bottle, chocolate bar wrapper and woolly hat! under our Community section, or keep up with us on facebook and Twitter. After spending an evening scooping up this detritus it put me in mind of our effect on the landscape that we love so much, and the words of John Redhead; “not ours but ours to look after”. This quote is used by Nurture Lakeland, an organisation that works with businesses and conservation groups, to ensure a sustainable future for the beautiful landscapes of Cumbria and the Lake District. So where does George Fisher stand in amongst this? We have a selection of products that in various ways tackle the threats to the environment that our presence creates. A variety of our products are made from recycled and recyclable materials. Chief amongst these is the brand Patagonia, which has been forging ahead in its desire to have an entirely recyclable range of products by the end of this year. To support this we are part of their ‘Common Threads’ programme, which allows any customer to return a worn-out Patagonia garment to us for recycling. There are a few products that can help you to help the environment in a more direct way. Firstly the innovative Crunchit (£5.00) from the stove maker Jetboil allows you to pierce an empty butane gas canister, enabling it to be de-pressurised and then recycled like any piece of metal.

Jetboil’s Crunchit tool safely Secondly POD Sacs have added some Waste de-pressurises fuel canisters Management dry bags (from £7.50) to their range. These differ from ordinary dry bags by having a double closure, to ensure the contents don’t contaminate anything else in your backpack. This ensures that you can follow good practice by carrying out everything you carry into a wilderness area, and even do you own litter pick as you walk along!

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk 5

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Winter climbing in Scotland or a season in the Alps, you need to LOCK know that your kit is secure and easily accessible. Our award winning patented ‘Headlocker’ system will secure any axe on & LOAD. the market to your pack, keeping it stable, streamlined and easily accessible.

The Alpine Attack range offers maximum durability using Dyneema fabric while optimising comfort by incorporating Lowe Alpine’s unique adaptive fit harness and hip belt system. Weighing in at just 850g* your load is lighter, more comfortable and more stable so you can get on with the job in hand.

Scan this using For more details contact Lowe Alpine on 01539 740840 your smartphone to Alpine Attack see how it all works Email [email protected]. www.lowealpine.com 45:55

*Alpine Attack 35-45 stripped weight. Also available in other sizes.

6 Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk

78790_GF_update_75.indd 6 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 EMERGENCY CONFUSION Need to call Mountain Rescue? Be careful who you ask for.

Concerns are mounting over the centralised emergency call system as walkers find it impossible to get help to casualties.

The problem arises when you call 999 and the operator asks which emergency service you require. Naturally some walkers will ask for the ambulance service, especially in situations where the emergency might be close to a road. However the operator will then ask for a postcode to identify your location. This may be relevant if you’ve fallen downstairs at home, but of course you won’t have a clue what your postcode is if you’re in the middle of Snowdonia. Also if by some miracle you happened to know the postcode, in rural areas these can cover a huge area and won’t be much help.

The logical response by a climber or walker will be to give the operator a grid reference, pinpointing your location. However control room staff are now Current centralised emergency service procedures can delay mountain rescues unable to accept or interpret grid references, leading to more confusion and delay in the response. The Ramblers Association, amongst other organizations, is aware of the issue and is gathering information in order to apply pressure to the Government A recent website ‘thread’ conversation about a climbing accident at Dunkeld to improve the situation. If this has happened to you, or you know of relevant highlights the problem: incidents please email Karen Inkster, Led Walks Officer, via karen.inkster@ ramblers.org.uk with details. “Guess it wasn’t really the fault of the girl who took the call (though she certainly wasn’t particularly quick on the uptake) - more a case of inflexible One final thought to leave with you. If you need to contact the emergency systems being inappropriate for the situation. For example, she didn’t seem services in any situation – a road traffic incident for example – think carefully to be able to move forward with the call until she had the postcode for our before calling an ambulance unless you have your location postcode handy. location. I was able to give accurate directions to where we were but had The same problems will apply! no idea of the postcode. She was obviously following a list of ‘set’ questions on her screen and there was a delay every time we hit a question I couldn’t easily answer. Then I would have to explain again something I had already gone over when the appropriate point came on her screen.

“I do understand that she was only following procedures that probably work well in many other situations and are no doubt necessary in order to streamline the service - however, it was deeply frustrating on that occasion. I was completely calm when I initially made the call but by the end was www.tekosocks.com struggling to keep my composure.

“Another example ... ‘Did he fall more or less than 28 feet?’ I don’t work in feet so answered ‘Somewhere around that distance’ She insisted that I made a judgement on whether it was more than or less than 28 feet. We couldn’t move on until I had responded to that question.

“Overall it felt like I was being asked a huge number of irrelevant questions whilst not having the opportunity to give her important information.

“Like I said, I’m sure she was just doing her job in the best way she knew how, but compared to every other part of the emergency services we encountered that day, she was undoubtedly the weakest link.”

You’ll be relieved to hear that this particular rescue had a happy outcome, mainly due to the professionalism of the mountain rescue team. However there is a very important message here. Comfort, Performance, Sustainability

When calling 999 for a mountain rescue incident DO NOT ASK FOR AN For further information on Teko® socks please ring us on: AMBULANCE otherwise you will get asked for a postcode. Always start 0800 032 3505 or email: [email protected] by asking for police, then explain it’s a mountain rescue issue.

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk 7 TEKO_QTP_colr_GF_interim.indd 1 17/03/2011 11:23

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WALK OF THE MONTH with Tim Woods of Car Free Walks

We’re linking up with carfreewalks.org, the website for people who love walking but want to reduce their impact on the environment, to bring you a classic walk each issue.

THIS ISSUE’S WALK: BLENCATHRA – THE SADDLEBACK

Of all the northern fells in the Lakes, Blencathra is undoubtedly one of the fi nest. There’s something for everyone here – a steep and enjoyable hill walk, the option of a classic scramble on Sharp Edge for those who like a challenge, and the fi nest pub the Lakes for when you fi nish in Threlkeld. This walk starts and fi nishes in Threlkeld, and takes the walking way up.

Photo: Tony West courtesy of Cumbria Tourism Cumbria of courtesy West Tony Photo: We’re including OS references to allow you to programme waypoints into your GPS. If you’ve never used a GPS unit and would like to try one of our latest Garmin models for the day, just pop into the store and have a word with one of our tech experts.

The bulk of Blencathra looms across Derwentwater behind these walkers

Loop or linear? Loop Map: 1:25,000 Lake District North East Start: Threlkeld OS Grid: NY324254 Total distance: about 7km (roughly 4 miles) Bus: X4/X5 service from Keswick to Penrith Total height gain: 758m (2,489ft)

1. Start at Threlkeld OS Grid: NY324254 5. Knowe Crag OS Grid: NY311268, About 2 km (roughly 1 miles) From the village, head for the hamlet of Gategill, just northeast. There is from 4 a footpath starting opposite the fi rst road junction. To descend, head along the southern edge of the plateau towards Blease Fell. From here you can pick up the track heading towards Blease Farm 2. Doddick Farm OS Grid: NY332266, about 1km (roughly 1 mile) and continue into Threlkeld. from 1 From Gategill, a small track takes you underneath the imposing southern 6. Back in Threlkeld OS Grid: NY322254, About 2 km (roughly 2 face of Blencathra. Don’t worry - the route up is easier than it looks from miles) from 5 here! The fi nal stage provides the day’s biggest challenge - which pub to head for? Opinion is divided among walkers, but either The Salutation Arms 3. Doddick Fell OS Grid: NY329277, about 1km (roughly 1 mile) from or the Horse and Farrier will be able to provide you with a delicious local 2 beer (Jennings). From the farm take the steep, sustained path heading up Doddick Fell. Head west when you get to the top of the ridge. Speaking of Jennings beer, Lowe Alpine has teamed up with the Cumbria-based real ale (nb. Those wishing to climb Blencathra via Sharp Edge should head brewer to offer you the chance to win Lowe northeast from Doddick Farm instead, skirting Scales Fell and ascending Alpine rucksacks and shoulder bags. The to Scales Tarn. This is a route with an exposed and potentially dangerous competition appears on the neck labels scramble, and not described here.) of all Jennings Cumberland Ale and Sneck 4. Hallsfell Top OS Grid: NY324277, about 1/2km (roughly 1/2 mile) Lifter bottles, with entries via text or online. from 3 As a bonus, every 40th entry wins a free The offi cial summit of Blencathra! But it’s really more of a summit Explore More T-shirt. Cheers! plateau than a pointy top, so have a little wander over to Atkinson Pike and the view down Sharp Edge. Tempting for another day...?

8 Try a fl avour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a fl avour of the lakes online: georgefi sher.co.uk

78790_GF_update_75.indd 8 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 21ST CENTURY TREASURE HUNTING Try geocaching with the National Trust and Garmin

Gregor Airey finds treasure!

Geocaching (pronounced geo-cashing) is a high-tech version of hide-and-seek where you explore the outdoors in search of hidden ‘treasure’ and adventure. And this summer, the National Trust is offering visitors an exciting new way to explore the great outdoors by partnering with GPS experts Garmin. As legend goes, pirates hid their treasure and marked the spot so that they could find it again. Geocaching works the same way – only advances in technology have taken things to a whole new level. MONTANA: THE OUTDOOR GPS THAT Hidden treasure troves – known as caches – have been hidden around ALSO WORKS ON WHEELS AND ON WATER the world. Their coordinates have been uploaded to websites such as www.opencaching.com or www.geocaching.com along with details and clues. All you have to do is load this information into a GPS device and • Garmin Montana series with rugged 4-inch colour touchscreen display set out on an adventure to find them. Once you’ve found the location, • Montana 600 + Garmin GB Discoverer bundle available; open the treasure chest - usually an old army ammunition box or includes 1:50K OS Landranger maps for entire GB plastic case - and you’ll find omes small gifts. You can take a gift and • Dual orientation display for long-distance and then leave one of your own. Before leaving, you should sign the guest wide-angle views book, maybe adding a few words of wisdom. • Tilt-compensated 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter and 5-megapixel camera (650/650t models only) This summer, special geocaching events will be taking place at over • Dual battery system – Lithium-ion or AA batteries 40 National Trust locations across the country. Visitors can borrow • Download premium 1:25K OS maps of chosen areas Garmin handheld GPS devices to find special achec s hidden in via BirdsEye Select National Trust countryside, coastland and sites. • Compatible with full European street, marine and topographic mapping and free route planning software “Geocaching is a great way to get outdoors and discover hidden places”, says Andy Airey from George Fisher. “With Garmin we’ve Montana – where will your next adventure take you? organised our own geocaching trips so we know how much fun it garmin.co.uk/explore can be. This partnership makes it even better as you can experience geocaching in beautiful National Trust locations.” Register any Garmin outdoor product between 01/06/11 and 30/09/11 and receive a FREE family pass to a National Trust site. National Trust locations at http://tinyurl.com/5tvkoaa search for Some restrictions apply. See garmin.co.uk/nationaltrust for details. ‘geocaching’..

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk 9

78790_GF_update_75.indd 9 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 NEWS ROUND-UP What’s been going on at George Fisher! Matt Segal, Australia. Photo: Tim Kemple Matt Segal, Photo courtesy of Keswick MRT Keswick of courtesy Photo

SIMPLE IDEA COULD SAVE LIVES The sun’s out and you’re ready for a walk. There’s just one little thing you may have forgotten, though – does anyone know where you’re going? Each year many B&Bs and hotels will find themselves in a difficult position. Late at night, guests they know are out on the hills but haven’t returned. Should they call Mountain Rescue, or just hope for the best? Here at George Fisher we’ve has come up with a solution – the Walk Plan. Distributed free to B&Bs and hotels across the Keswick area, the Walk Plan allows guests to fill in details of where they are going and leave with reception. Just a simple tear-off pad of forms, but they could might make all the difference if walkers get into difficulty. Mark Hodgson, leader of Keswick Mountain Rescue Team says “We support the Walk Plan because anything that encourages people to consider their equipment and route before they venture out is a useful thing. Plus if something goes wrong, it gives us a starting point!” Walk Plan winner for this quarter is Judy Mogie who stayed at Heckberry House in Keswick - both Judy and guest house get £50 George Fisher vouchers.

ABRAHAMS UPDATE Don’t forget that one of the finest cafes in Keswick is upstairs in George Fisher (that’s four floors above the gear room!). Tucked under the rafters, overlooking the entire store and with spectacular views over the Derwent fells, this is a perfect location to unwind after a big day in the hills. We source all our ingredients from local suppliers and it really makes a difference you can taste. Throughout the summer we’ll be offering our tasty, light recipes including Cumberland Rarebit, Avocado Pear and grilled Goats THE NORTH FACE® RANGE OF CLOTHING AND Cheese, plus Raisin & Cinnamon Scones. We also carry stocks of Lakeland EQUIPMENT NOW AVAILABLE FROM GEORGE FISHER tea bags (£2.65 box 80) and Red Squirrel coffee (£3.50 for 227 grams) both of which make ideal gifts. Drop in anytime!

10 Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk TNF_S11_outdoor_George Fisher_93x255_uk.indd 1 13/06/11 13:20

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SPRING CLEAN IN THE STORE NEWS ROUND-UP As you can see from the pictures, George Fisher recently underwent a big spring clean with large What’s been going on at George Fisher! areas of flooring being sanded down and restored. As you can imagine CHILDRENS BOOT EXCHANGE we can’t do this while SERVICE customers are in the store, so because we’re open seven days a week it While adults are happy means that this becomes to shell out on the best a night-time activity. walking footwear for the Certainly a long day for fells, often it’s the case some members of staff… that youngsters are left in wellies or trainers. TRAINING TIME That’s why at George Fisher, to ensure your growing We regularly work with our suppliers to make sure we’re up-to-date children are properly shod with their latest products and how they’re used. With complex products for the hills we offer an exchange service on junior boots purchased from like tents, GPS units us. Subject to the condition of the boots, we will offer up to half price paid or even rucksacks it’s against a new pair of junior boots. Boots returned for exchange need to be in essential to hear from a clean condition, with the original receipt. the companies how the products were designed, GEORGE FISHER ON THE BEEB why features have been added and really get hands-on with using Many hands make light work… them. With this in mind, we recently had extended sessions with Lowe Alpine and Hilleberg on the hill. Both companies make products that are considered amongst the best on the market, so it’s vital to understand their latest offerings. Renowned author and alpinist Andy Cave works with the Lowe Alpine designers so he was on hand to talk us through their new alpine rucksacks, plus Asolo footwear, which Lowe Alpine distributes in the UK. A good work-out on Latrigg and the slopes of Skiddaw allowed us to swap products around, testing comfort and fit.

Tents are some of the more complicated products we sell, and of course we must understand exactly how they work and differ. It’s not the sort of thing you can do on the shop floor so Hilleberg took us out for an evening’s training If you happened to be watching breakfast telly back in May you might to get to grips with tents large and small – including bivy bags! have seen our very own Andy Airey wheeled out to talk about The Great Outdoors.

BBC Breakfast business news editor Simon Jack was on a family camping holiday in the Lakes, staying on the Camping & Caravanning Club site on Derwentwater. Research had just been published claiming that people who went camping were happier than those who don’t, so Simon was tasked with finding someone to talk with who was considered an expert in the outdoors. Andy Airey was called forth and the BBC Breakfast cameras descended on Derwentwater to record a live interview.

We think they’re right by the way – campers in the UK are happier because they certainly need to retain a sense of humour! Andy Cave (L) and George Fisher team

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk 11

78790_GF_update_75.indd 11 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 IS OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EXCLUSIVE TO Lake District Outdoor Centre EXPERTS? Borrowdale Valley, Keswick CA12 5XQ Make it accessible to all, says local outdoor centre Glaramara

Is the outdoor activities industry failing to get its message across? Read the outdoor magazines and you might think that, without prior experience and proven skills, you’re not welcome into this world. In other words: experts only!

According to Borrowdale-based outdoor centre Glaramara, it’s time to say that this world is open to everyone. Old to young, rich to poor, all body sizes, the fit and the less active, individuals, families and groups. The problem is - EverybodyEverybody WelcomeWelcome how do they get their first taste? The Glaramara Centre, located at the head of the Graham Oglethorpe from Glaramara says, “Traditional activities include rock beautiful Borrowdale Valley in the heart of the Lake District is an environmental award winning multi-purpose venue where climbing, abseiling and canoeing but outdoor providers are developing more people of all age groups can discover the great outdoors, try and more ‘adrenaline fuelled’ programmes. Locally these include mountain adventurous activities and learn new skills on our specifically designed courses, also develop an appreciation for the bike trails and Go Ape at Whinlatter, via ferrata at Honister, mine exploration environment. in Borrowdale and ghyll scrambling in the Newlands Valley.” The centre is open to everybody even if you are not participating in organised activities. With easy access to some The benefits? “You’ll learn new skills and more about yourself. You may of the best high level routes in the Lake District it is the ideal base for a walking or activity holiday. find a new interest for life. And if you come to Glaramara, we also provide For groups with educational requirements we can organise something that you don’t often find with activity providers - a bar, a courses in line with the national curriculum and help plan field studies. School groups will always be given sole use of the restaurant and first class chefs!” centre. No minimum of stay is required and the centre can be hired Glaramara has been operating since 1935 as a base for walkers, built by the on an exclusive basis. Details of all activities and skills Countrywide Holiday Association and taken over by the current owners in courses are on our website. 2000. Since then it has developed its outdoor arm and residential facilities. VENUEVENUE HIREHIRE ANDAND FUNCTIONSFUNCTIONS It is on the Coast to Coast Walk, close to Scafell and Great Gable, and is Following its recent refurbishment and modernisation the popular with walkers and bikers. Individuals, families and groups of all ages Centre continues to be an ideal place to celebrate a special are welcome - depending upon occasion whether it be a birthday party, a reunion, a group size, activity prices christening or a wedding reception. Our extensive private grounds with stunning views of some of the Lake District's start from £20 per half day most famous fells makes this a unique venue for a celebration. per person which includes The Centre also lends itself well to exclusive event hire, whether it be for exhibitional, educational, business, sporting specialist equipment, expert or social purposes. tuition and a hot shower at the end! So, if you’re reading this and are wondering if WEB: www.glaramara.co.uk it’s for you, George Fisher TeL 017687 77222 can thoroughly recommend Fun on the Honister via ferrata – everyone Glaramara. Go on - try a half- EMaiL: [email protected] should try it! day taster session – it could change your life!

12 Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk

78790_GF_update_75.indd 12 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 WALK YOURSELF

FIT With a Nordic Walking workout

Nordic walking is one of the most sociable, enjoyable and effective exercise techniques around. Scandinavians have been using the technique for years to keep fit in the summer months - you can burn over 40% more calories compared to normal walking, and it uses 90% of your body muscles. This summer George Fisher is teaming with up John Beetham, a local “One of the most sociable, enjoyable and effective exercise techniques around” personal trainer who has also added Nordic walking to his repertoire. John has a great relationship with George Fisher as he used to work Of course the key piece of gear is the Nordic walking pole, such as in the shop! As a trainer with a passion for outdoor pursuits, John is those supplied by leading pole brand Leki. These long, lightweight really enthusiastic about getting people fit using the environment on poles feature an aluminium upper and carbon fibre lower section, our doorstep. 2-component hand grips, the Super Lock length adjustable system, “Many people, myself included, don’t want to use gyms as a way of special carbide tips with a ‘Powergrip’ rubber grip, plus a releasable getting fit or shedding those pounds”, says John. “Given we have such trigger strap system which lets you click in and out of the grip with an amazing location here in Keswick, I encourage my clients to take ease and provides comfortable wrist support. their workouts into the outdoors.” Taster sessions at George Fisher: Sat 23rd and Sun Nordic walking offers a great opportunity to get outdoors while giving 24th July, 40-min sessions between 10am and 3pm. a total body work-out. Not to be confused with trekking or hill-walking 6-10 per session, book with John in advance via with regular walking poles, the technique is very different and the 07870 195441 or [email protected] pole design is specific to Nordic walking. The sport was born out of cross-country skiing and is widely recognised throughout Scandinavia and continental Europe as the best way to keep fit for skiing during the summer months. The sport has begun to take off here in the UK; in fact George Fisher was one of the first outdoor stores to champion Nordic walking several years ago. As Andy Airey says, “Nordic walking was getting quite popular four or five years ago, but never really seemed to gain mass appeal. Maybe this was due to a lack of qualified instructors who could teach the technique properly and reach out not only to regular walkers, but fitness enthusiasts looking for an exciting new challenge”. Both Andy and John feel the time is right to promote Nordic walking. “More and more people are becoming serious about health and fitness”, says John. “Combine this with a surge in interest for fast- mountain ‘athletic’ type activities then Nordic walking really is growing in the UK. One of the great advantages is that it can appeal to all ages and abilities - not just your wiry mountain goats! After all it is simply an extension of walking and can be done anywhere; in your local park, lakeshore paths, canal paths, or even walking to the shops!” John will be providing free taster sessions from George Fisher throughout the summer as well as his own regular classes in Keswick and Cockermouth which are increasing in popularity. As always the George Fisher team will be on hand to provide expert advice on equipment and clothing.

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk 13

78790_GF_update_75.indd 13 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 SUMMER SAUNTERS Des Oliver recounts some epic summer journeys across the fells

Although I climbed Skiddaw in the 1930s it wasn’t until the 1950s that I started proper hill walking, mainly through studying the list of 2,000-foot-high mountains in the Ward Locke guidebook.

While it’s fairly straightforward to visit one mountain at a time, I devised routes that would bag one summit after another. A popular walk from my home in Keswick was the Coledale Horseshoe although most of it was done at a trot as I was into fell running at the time, and led to running most of the famous ‘horseshoe’ walks including the famous Ennerdale fell race.

One of my favourite long walks was the ‘3,000 footers’ of Skiddaw, Helvellyn and Scafell Pike – occasionally including Ill Crag, Broad Crag and sometimes Scafell. Once with friends I did the walk in winter with very icy ground to contend with. We started and finished in the dark, finding our way by moonlight – no head torches at the time!

For variety in my long walks I once traversed the 2,900 footers accompanied by George Fisher, starting with Pillar to Great Gable and including Great End and Bowfell. Approaching Helvellyn a strange thing happened – my legs started to give way and I had to sit down. I had run out of food, but George gave me some of his and I was able to recover and carry on. I compared it to a car running out of fuel, I needed to top up before I could continue!

Another ‘summer saunter’ was from Seathwaite in Borrowdale to Coniston Old Man via Bowfell and the Three Shire Stone and back. It was a very hot, sunny day and I got badly sunburnt – my legs were the colour of carrots.

Talking of summer sun, I’ve seen my share of fell-top sunrises but the most spectacular was from Great Gable. A brilliant clear night with a full moon, we climbed Napes Needle en route to the summit. When the sun rose the shadow of Gable was cast over the valley of Wasdale, with BEHOLD THE ORIGINAL... the summit shadow reaching far out into the Irish Sea. ...THE TILLEY Acknowledged as the finest outdoor and Probably my ultimate summer saunter was walking the Lake District adventure hat in all the world. from end to end, without crossing a valley. I started near Pooley Bridge along High Street to Kirkstone Pass then Red Screes to Fairfield to Dunmail, across the fells to Stake Pass, then up over Ore Gap and along the high ground to Hardknott Pass, over all the high sheep-grazing ground via Thwaite Fell to Black Combe. (phew! - Ed) Another very hot day and I kept cool by soaking two handkerchieves in stream water, putting one on my head and the other around my neck. T: 0800 374353 www.TilleyUK.com So there we are. It’s unlikely that you will see me summer sauntering any more, but they certainly gave me many happy memories of days – and nights – on the fells.

14 Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk

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ECCENTRIC OR In The Backcountry, PROPHET? Having The Right Eccentricity often gets a bad press. We can all think of people we’d call eccentric, who are maybe just a bit ‘socially inadequate’. Shelter Is Crucial But of course there is also a tradition of great, open-hearted Constructed to rigorous standards, Hilleberg tents have been the eccentrics who have blazed a trail throughout history. These creative top choice of professional adventurers and discerning backcountry and inspirational individuals prize freedom and adventure, and have travelers around the world for over 35 years. been bold enough to live by what they believe. From the 8-person Atlas to the solo Akto, every Hilleberg model is precisely designed and engineered to provide the optimal blend One such man was Millican Dalton. Born to a Quaker family in 1867, of reliability, ease of use, versatility, durability and comfort, all at he enjoyed a typical boyhood before starting work in London as an a light weight. insurance clerk. All Hilleberg Tents Are... However all that changed at the age of thirty-six. A keen cyclist, Supremely reliable and easy to use in all seasons camper and climber, Dalton felt constrained by work life and - in a and conditions radical act for his times - opted to strike out on a simpler life of self- Built with plenty of room for you and your gear sufficiency. Made with superior materials for longevity Constructed with linked inner and outer tents for quick, simple, one-step pitching Designed and developed in northern Sweden by a company with over three decades of tent design, development and manufacturing experience Individually set up and quality checked in Hilleberg’s European factory before being shipped

First, he built a forest hut in Buckinghamshire where he lived during the winter months alternating with camping in the Lake District in the summer. Next he adopted the title of ‘Professor of Adventure’ and began offering adventure trips in the Lake District to interested lovers of the outdoors. Addressed as ‘the Skipper’ he would lead parties in “mountain rapid shooting, rafting, hair’s-breadth escapes”, and climbing.

Intent on ever-closer companionship with nature, Dalton moved Philipp Schuppl into a cave in Borrowdale in the 1920 and continued to lead adventurous trips. s. Living a frugal life he made his own clothes, Go to www.hilleberg.com and order pioneered lightweight camping gear, and continued to lead groups on a free copy of our 2011 catalog. adventurous trips. Dalton was known locally for his eccentric outfits, Tyrolean hat and love of dark coffee and Woodbine cigarettes.

If you want to re-create ‘The Millican Dalton Experience’, the Keswick Canoe Company runs day trips that follow in the footsteps of the Professor of Adventure. Delve into his unique chosen way of life and discover his techniques of self-sufficiency. Select and gather natural WWW.HILLEBERG.SE edibles, collect fire lighting materials, cook one of his staple meals, Frösön, Sweden • +46 (0)63 57 15 50 and paddle down his local highway! Contact Claire or Paul Weller on 07944 735010, or find out more at www.keswickcanoecompany.co.uk

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea roomH11-GeoFisherUK0311-Half-VERT-Asst-93x255.indd For a flavour of the lakes 1 online: georgefisher.co.uk 3/4/1115 14:09

78790_GF_update_75.indd 15 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 IT’S ALL A LOAD OF CATBELLS Bill Birkett

An indifferent May and June have followed a brilliant April of warm and sunny weather, with climbers getting out onto the higher crags including those of Scafell. Hailstones, rain, blustery wind and generally cold conditions dominated the weather. Maybe that’s the summer over, who knows? In a way it hasn’t really bothered me too much.

That’s because I’m still carrying an injury picked up in early January on a climbing wall. Whoever said climbing walls are potentially dangerous Leonard was born in London in 1864 and died in Conway in 1948. The was right. Perhaps if I had properly warmed up, carried out a stretching plaque continues, “Believing that ‘the best things any mortal hath are routine, then things may have been different. I thought I had got over it those which every mortal shares’ he endeavoured to promote ‘joy in until, ping, it went again in Haute Provence at Easter. Well at least I had the widest commonality spread’”. the luxury of crying into my beer while basking in the sunshine at the local café. Some comfort also to know that I’m not the only one, with There’s a similar plaque to be found on Cadair Ifan Goch in North Dave Birkett also sidelined at the moment with a shoulder injury picked Wales. Leonard became secretary for a holiday movement, which up from a tumble. Apparently while bridging between rock and a tree, was eventually to become the CHA. He was a Christian Socialist and, in the process of cleaning the moss off the top of a boulder problem, following his work with CHA, founded The Holiday Fellowship and helped his tree foot slipped. He’s had to reduce his climbing grade to E7 – my initially with the YHA and International Tramping Tours, which had been heart bleeds! founded by Frank Wright and Margaret Happold. In 1934 he was in the founding party of the Friends of the Lake District and in 1935 he was So indoor climbing walls and tree climbing should clearly be treated awarded the OBE but it has been said that, “he was temperamentally with extreme caution. Anyhow, the good news for me is that I’m a rebel, seldom acceptable to the authorities”. There was a real still able to wander the hills and wild places. Recently I took in a philosophy and movement from this time until recently that the hills circumnavigation of Catbells (or should it be Cat Bells?) following the should be open to all, regardless of class, creed, colour or financial time-honoured route up Skelgill Bank and returning via the shores of means and the Youth Hostel Association, with their hostels providing Derwentwater (or should it be Derwent Water?). Deservedly a popular basic accomodation in strategic places, being a prime mover and route with outstanding scenery to all points of the compass. facilitator of this philosophy.

Pinned to the rocks beneath the top of Skelgill Bank I noted with some The irony is that on the morning I set off for Catbells I spied that irony the ‘Leonard’ memorial plaque. It states: Barrow House YHA is currently up for sale to the highest bidder. This wonderfully sited hostel is easily seen from Skelgill Bank over on the THOMAS ARTHUR LEONARD opposite shore of Derwent Water. Surely to Leonard, and indeed those FOUNDER OF THE CO-OPERATIVE AND COMMUNAL HOLIDAYS of us who fundamentally believe that enjoyment of the great outdoors AND FATHER OF THE OPEN-AIR MOVEMENT IN THIS COUNTRY should be open to all, this would seem a mighty big stride in the wrong direction. I’m sure I read in one newspaper report that the hostel does plenty of bed nights and is extremely popular, so its sale seems to be all about how much money the YHA can make. Poor all Leonard must be turning in his grave, but what do you think? Drop me an email and let me know: [email protected]

Another thing that caught my eye was the gigantic wooden hand sculpture by Victoria Bay. Indeed how could you miss it? It celebrates a hundred years of the National Trust, whose purchase of Brandelhow Woods in 1904 saved the area from development and kept the area open and free for all to enjoy. That is, of course, something to celebrate. However, with no disrespect meant to its creator is it right to clutter up this incomparable landscape with man-made stuff? Personally I like to see the natural beauty of the area as untouched by the hand of man as possible. So, I say, a big No to creeping urbanisation and to the breaking-up of an institution whose philosophy has brought so much pleasure to so many people.

16 Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk

78790_GF_update_75.indd 16 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 ACHES AND PAINS? BRING THEM TO US… Andrew Stanley brings his famous Rebound Clinic to George Fisher

At George Fisher, we like to think that we offer a bit more than just the shop. This is a UK first - an outdoor shop with a resident biomechanics- great outdoor products. specialised podiatrist who can diagnose and treat, while you wait, on site. Biomechanical correction and boot fitting can take place in one place, saving From a boot-fitting standpoint we knew by 1995 that knowledge regarding valuable time and travelling expense. the way people walk - biomechanics – would be a crucial part in allowing our staff to be even better at their job. So we set about finding a specialist whose Andrew Stanley opens his Hill Walking Clinic at George Fisher on Monday 1 expertise was the study of walking. In true George Fisher style, in 1998 (yes it August. Unfortunately Andrew can’t be with us full time so initially he’ll be with took us three years) we eventually found the man we believe is the best in the us one day a month, on the business. Based over in Settle, podiatrist Andrew Stanley has been specialising first working day of the month. in walking biomechanics for many years through his Rebound Clinic. However we’re confident that the concept represents Andrew has now been training our staff in basic biomechanics for 13 years and a revolution in customer to their credit, our people have now gained a level of expertise and knowledge service that will continue that enables them to perform their boot-fitting task to a level that cannot be to keep George Fisher head matched anywhere else in the UK. and shoulders above the For customers who had more advanced biomechanical problems that might competition in the field of boot hinder their walking, we always recommended a visit to Settle for correction fitting. treatment before fitting new boots. However, for many of our customers this To book a consultation with is impractical and we know that their experience of treatment elsewhere has Andrew at George Fisher, been patchy to say the least. call the Rebound Clinic on We knew there must be a better way. So, after much negotiation and planning 01729 825900 we have managed to persuade Andrew to set up a clinic and workshop at Andrew Stanley will be setting up a clinic at George Fisher

Staff profile Sean Hayes

My background is a little different to most of the staff here, the outdoors is not only my passion, but also been my main source of employment all of my working life. I have always had an interest in the outdoors; climbing, hill walking and mountain biking since I was very young, and more recently winter sports, ice climbing and snowshoeing. I never wanted a traditional ‘indoor’ office job so I set out to find work outside, doing adventurous activities. Since the age of 18 working as an outdoor activity instructor I›ve been fortunate enough to go hiking and mountaineering in Alaska, canoeing in New Zealand, and mountain biking in South Africa. I try and spend my holidays in the French Alps in winter and summer seasons. I’ve got a long list of unfinished bike routes, climbs and cake shops to visit! However I always end up back in the Lake District. It has so many world-class adventures to offer in such a small area, it›s brilliant! With the shop’s long tradition of being involved with Keswick Mountain Rescue Team, I am now involved as a probationary member with the team. I get to see first hand how much hard work unpaid volunteers put in, and am grateful for the support, and understanding of the shop. Although I›ve only been with George Fisher for about a year now, I really enjoy it. I tend to move about a bit within the store due to my varied experiences outside, which really adds to the variety of things in the shop. The amount of training we receive direct from the brands is superb, and the staff are so active, so there is always someone to go biking, climbing or walking with.

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk 17

78790_GF_update_75.indd 17 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update SUMMER 2011 - ISSUE 75 NOT SO SMART PHONES Our man in Chamonix, mountain guide Mark Seaton considers how mobile phones are useful (and useless) in the hills

Improvements in mobile phones and so-called smart phones have been incredible, in what seems to be just a blink of an eye. Most smart phones now have full GPS receivers and mapping software so you can use them just like a dedicated GPS unit.

These phones are packed with amazing technology but it seems that the designers might have forgotten that they are meant to be… well… telephones. In the mountains they frequently do not work as well as ordinary mobile phones. It is often diffi cult to pick up a weak signal where a basic mobile phone would get coverage.

At the same time there has been a signifi cant increase in calls to Mountain Rescue teams. This is attributed to the ease of calling for help, that people often rely on poor-quality digital maps on their smart phones, and that when the battery dies they are instantly ‘lost’. Plus then they have no phone either.

Clearly mobiles can save lives by alerting rescue teams quickly so I have included a few points based on my own experience, which might help you get help in a real emergency. often be to put the phone into ‘manual search mode’, which gives First I should point out I am not a mobile phone technician, but a you a chance to access all available networks - not just the ones your mountain guide who has experience of using mobiles in areas where service provider has a reciprocal arrangement with. This can take the reception is often less than ideal. The fi rst thing is to look after several minutes so do not give up. your phone so that it will always work. No mobile phone will work without power. Smart phones chew through power so there are two Using a mobile phone in the Alps to contact mountain rescue is choices: turn it off so you have power when needed, or carry a spare relatively simple. All emergency services, the police, ambulances, battery. I use a separate battery which plugs in by the charging fi re service etc can be called on a mobile by phoning 112. Even if the cable, so that I can keep it in my pocket while charging the phone phone is not yours and you do not have an access code, all you have because the battery life is signifi cantly reduced in cold weather. Try to do is dial 112. to warm the phone up before using it. Although the 112 number is a satisfactory service, a better way of Popular makes of external batteries include Powertraveller, The specifi cally contacting Mountain Rescue is by phoning them directly. Pebble and Satechi. In addition the ability of the phone to pick up a It is worth getting the number from the local tourist offi ce and then weak signal seems to be greatly enhanced by having a battery that is programming the number into your phone memory. as fully charged as possible. At this stage it is important to consider that a lot of Alpine mountains Mobile phones do not like getting wet. Smart are on the borders of different countries. This is particularly true phones can’t even cope with condensation from of the Mont Blanc massif. It might be that you need to phone for a carrying inside your waterproof jacket. Dropping rescue in France, but the nearest transmitter is Italian. What this it, especially in a puddle or wet snow, can be means is that you need to make an international call, even though a death sentence for a mobile phone so get a you are actually standing in France and calling a French number. watertight case for it. Manufacturers include Therefore it is important that you always programme the full Aquapac or (my favourite) Otterbox. Their international number, including the country code, into the phone so Defender case completely encases the phone that you are prepared for this eventuality. and the screen. They are very well made and to my mind are essential. If you are going to make a rescue call this is what you can expect to happen. The rescue team will fi rst ask for your situation and what the The next step is getting some reception. exact problem is. Your phone number will be automatically recorded If there’s no signal the trick can by the rescue services. Aquapac phone case

18 Try a fl avour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a fl avour of the lakes online: georgefi sher.co.uk

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The rescue team will then call you back. This is their check for hoax callers. (In Chamonix there are over 400 call-outs per week in August.) When you receive their call, you must be prepared to give THE FALKE the following details:

Your position, ie. name of the peak or climb, and your altitude. DIFFERENCE German quality and fit from a top sock brand The injuries, the number of injured and number in the party.

In addition, most rescues are carried out by helicopter so you will be This summer George Fisher is introducing Falke asked what the visibility is like, the wind speed and direction. Also socks across a number of activity whether the party is wearing harnesses because this makes it easier categories, including running, to winch people if it is not possible to land the helicopter. skiing and walking.

Last month a British guide called his wife from the summit of Everest Falke takes a different approach to on a standard GSM phone which was a spectacular media stunt. But other socks, using a blend of natural and it was a stunt, and sometimes these things work and sometimes synthetic fibres. Founded in 1895 by Franz they do not. For example many of my clients become very excited Falke-Rohen, the owner of a small knitting about the prospect of calling their loved ones from the summit mill in Germany, Falke products have always of Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn or some other conquest. But it is had craftsmanship at the centre of their worth remembering that this novelty lies with you! Not usually the design. Evolving over the years the company recipient of the call, who may well be in bed asleep and therefore diversified into sports creating what they distinctly unimpressed. Furthermore reception can be poor and what called their ‘Ergonomic Sport System’. was meant as an ecstatic phone home can be (and all too frequently is) misinterpreted as a call for help, thus wreaking a kind of telecoms What really sets these socks apart is havoc across Europe. So my advice is leave the victory call until you what the company refers to as the ‘Falke are safely down from the mountain and back in the valley having a Difference’. This is based on three beer. guiding principles:

Anatomy: conforming to the movement of the human body during Falke’s TK1 trekking sock sports.

Climate Control: the ability to regulate temperature and control moisture.

Support: providing protection and support where needed.

In practical terms this means a number of small innovations that add up to one big difference. For example a patented asymmetric toe design that reduces the risk of blisters and pressure points, and smaller size classifications where each size band comprises just two, or maximum three sizes so that socks are never too loose or tight.

Unique construction also plays a part. Moisture is transported from the sole of the foot to the more breathable instep and ankle areas, resulting in drier feet that are less prone to pressure marks and blisters. This same construction also prevents overheating through the use of channels that allow air circulation between the sock and the shoe. The whole concept is supported by the selection of the best technical yarns and polymers such as polypropylene, Primaloft and merino wool, plus cushioning that supports the foot where it is LOVE AT most needed. FIRST TOUCH

Try a flavour of the lakes: visit our Abraham’s tea room For a flavour of the lakes online: georgefisher.co.uk 19

78790_GF_update_75.indd 19 12/07/2011 07:40 the Update WINTER 2010 - ISSUE 73 SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES WITH US

Have you discovered the George Fisher facebook page yet? Hundreds of To join us visit georgefi sher.co.uk and click on the facebook link. Bring your you have and already there’s a fantastic community feel to it. friends along too! Why are we using facebook? Well it’s an extension to The Update really, but better still it’s a two-way thing. As well as sharing our news it’s your space too. Share tales of your adventures, upload photographs, and ask questions - not only of George Fisher but also across a like-minded community with one common interest, a love of the outdoors.

Whatever your interest or ability, it’s your space to instantly collaborate, share information and ideas or simply to have a conversation whether it’s about mountaineering, fell walking, kayaking, running, cycling, skiing, navigation, wild camping or photography. Or more!

We’ll keep you updated with what’s going on at George Fisher, around Keswick and across the Lake District but don’t wait for us, lead the way. Writer and environmentalist Roger Deakin hit the nail on the head when he wrote, “I want all my friends to come up like weeds; spontaneous and unstoppable!”

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N106960_GF10_G07520.indd 1 18.08.2010 15:05:55 Uhr Published by George Fisher Limited, 2 Borrowdale Road, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5DA Tel: 017687 72178 Website: www.georgefi sher.co.uk Email: customerservice@georgefi sher.co.uk The publishers of 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 necessarily of George Fisher Ltd. Editor: Clive Allen Printed by Reeds Printers, Penrith Tel: 01768 864214 Printed on 100% recycled paper

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