London-based teacher, Jake Killick, was killed in an accident at Symonds Yat on 27 August. He was climbing the route 'The Russian' (HVS). It is reported that he and was unable to get any decent gear in when he fell. Those at the crag tried to help and the resuce services arrived quickly but his injuries were too serious and he died at the scene. Friends of Jake described him as an experienced climber who "lived for the sport". There will be a funeral in Upottery, Devon on 13 September.
Symmonds Yat is well known as having more call outs there than the rest of the wye valley put together. It is very dangerous at the top of the crag as it's steep dust / mud and can be made worse in wet conditions. This isn't helped by the fact that the top section of the crag is often the crux which is often lacking in gear. All in all a decent crag though. Condolences to friends and family....
Very sad news indeed. When I saw the headline 'Climber Killed at Symonds Yat', I immediately thought of 'The Russian'. I did it a few months ago and actually posted on UK Climbing that it was hard and serious for the HVS grade.
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