This Thursday, an evenings climing at Alderman Rock nr Oldham was the trad venue of choice. There were 5 of us in total - Robin, Ryan, Mike, Richard (for the first time in a while) and myself. We met up at the RSBP Binn Green car park and then set off for the walk up the hill to Alderman Rock
We split into 2 climbing groups. Robin & Ryan in 1 group, and Mike, Richard and myself in the other
Robin and Ryan started their evening with Robin leading The Great Gatsby (VS 4c). Then Ryan gave Great Slab Right HVS 4c a go
Meanwhile, Mike started the evening leading Cleft and Chimney (VD) with Stuart seconding and Richard coming up last. I then led my first VS - Great Slab (VS 4c) which was great to do. Mike seconded and Richard gave it a great effort to top out also
Mike then led a nice easy climb - Great Slab Chimney (D) - with Richard seconding and I followed.
It was my lead next and I chose another VS - The Great Gatsby (VS 4c). I tried not to use the right hand arete as I didn't feel it was in, with the night closing in and the rock feeling greasy, I had to use it which made the climb much easier. I was asured this was allowed and it's noted in my UKC logbook - but I'm still not convinced. One to try again next time I'm there
Robin and Ryan finished their day with Robin leading Pigmy Wall (HS 4b).
With the weather feeling like it would rain soon, we packed up and got back to the car park. We then all followed Mike down some very narrow country lanes to The Church Inn in Saddleworth for some refreshments
