Last week, 13 of the UK's most talented young climbers, aged 12 to 16, headed for Fontainbleau for 4 days of action as part of the BMC Adventureworks 'Extreme Bloc' youth meet. They had earned their places through previous BRYCS comps.

Despite damp weather, the youngsters managed to climb every day, visiting classic areas such as Trois Pignons, Isatis, Cuisiniere, L'Elephant and Bas Cuvier.

Even though most had never been to Font before - one had never climbed outdoors - they took to the slopers and funky sequences characteristic of Bleau problems with youthful imagination and open-mindedness!

Many classic problems were climbed, leaving the adults slack-jawed and repeatedly burnt off by the mini-crankers. Everyone had a brilliant time.

So here it is: the next generation are aged 12, already know how to climb brilliantly, are fearless, 10 times more motivated and haven't heard of excuses...it's inspirational!

Thanks to the BMC, Adventureworks and all involved.