Carlisle and District Rambling and Fellwalking Club

Xmas Lunch Walks

Grange Over Sands

SAFETY MESSAGE.

Like many I was looking forward to getting out this weekend in the snow on the fells. We have always endeavoured to keep walks on even when the forecast has not been that good. This weekend extreme conditions are anticipated on the fells and MRT are advising against being on the tops. In its long history the club has never had what you could call a major safety incident. This is probably due to the sensible thinking of walk leaders making the right decision at the right time.

This weekends forecast is an amber warning for snow, possibly going to red. This does not only effect the hill conditions but driving on our narrow twisting roads making getting from A to B difficult. It looks like the wind getting up toward the end of the day on Sunday also. The ground is frozen solid and I almost slipped twice in Rickerby Park yesterday. There were 28 deaths on the fells in 2024 twice as many as the previous year (2023 14). This year has not started well with someone falling to their death on Sharp Edge yesterday. A reminder to us all that you cant be too careful. We must also consider the fact that we do not want to be responsible for having to call out MRT when it is questionable whether we should have been there in the first place.

I would like also just to remind everyone about carrying the correct winter kit. For one, i love to wear walking shoes in the summer but this time of year good boots are a must when on the hills, with extra warm clothing and a survival blanket at least.

I hope there is still snow on the tops next week and the general forecast is more favourable so we can enjoy it. Lets look forward to another accident free year. Thanks for your cooperation and a Happy New Year. Remember, the Leaders decision is Final. See you at the AGM

Regards Pete.

Carlisle Ramblers & Fellwalkers

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