Hi everyone
The peregrines have done their stuff and as of today the crag is open for climbing.
Last year saw a major clean up and the majority of routes ought to still be in very good condition.
However, to keep the crag in good nick please take a brush with you and where you see the need give the route you're on a bit of a clean.
There are also a few routes (Les estimates about 20% of the total)that need more work than that. It would be good if people carried on the restoration work done last year by having a go at some of these - for which a small saw, secateurs, brush and maybe a peg hammer would be useful.
Please don't leave this to everyone else because if we all took that attitude there would be no everyone else.
Have fun!
Colin Struthers
PS Below is the full text of the current agreement:
Rock climbing is permitted at Hoghton Tower Quarry for BMC members and
members of affiliated climbing clubs from Sunday, June 3rd to Sunday
August 26th, 2012. Climbers must NOT climb or visit the quarry at any other
time, because this will disrupt wildlife and other activities in, or around, the
quarry. Please park with consideration for local residents.
Please note the following approach to the quarry, which avoids crossing the
railway and which should now be used:
From the chapel, cross the railway bridge (i.e. towards Hoghton Towers) then
go through the gate on the left immediately after the bridge. A muddy track
then leads into the quarry.
During this period there should be no nesting birds and so climbing should
not disturb the wildlife. However, if any nesting birds are still at the quarry,
please leave immediately to avoid disturbing them.
Please observe the following conditions when visiting the quarry.
1. Climbers can visit the quarry from 8.30 am, but must leave by 5.30 pm
– so please plan your climbing carefully. Between Wednesday and
Saturday this time is extended to 9.00 pm.
2. When you have reached the top of a climb, please descend to the left or
right around the perimeter of the quarry (i.e. do not wander up towards
the Tower).
3. Do not use portable radios.
4. Park sensibly without causing any obstruction on Chapel Lane.
Remember that the continuation of climbing at Hoghton in future years
depends upon our adherence to this agreement. So enjoy your climbing and
act responsibly.
Les Ainsworth (BMC Access Rep.)
(April 17th, 2012)
